A system for implanting an interbody device (20) between adjacent vertebrae (1) comprises an interbody device having a plurality of lobes extending outwardly from a longitudinal rib, and having a relaxed shape approximating the shape of the disc being replaced. An insertion guide (100) is provided having a bore therein from a proximal end to a distal end thereof to accept said interbody device (20) in an unrelaxed shape, wherein said distal end is shaped for insertion into an intervertebral space. The insertion rod may be positioned within said bore of said insertion guide whereby said interbody device is positioned within said intervertebral space by advancing said insertion rod into said insertion guide.
