An implant insertion apparatus for guiding surgical instrumentation and facilitating insertion of surgical implants into an intervertebral space includes an adjustable element defining a longitudinal passageway dimensioned to guide the surgical instrumentation inserted through the longitudinal passageway. The adjustable element has an elongate body and an extended body that are movable relative to one another for varying the length of the adjustable element. The apparatus also includes an engaging element insertable into the intervertebral space between adjacent vertebrae. The engaging element is releasably secured to a distal end of the elongate body.