Abstract: A method of manufacturing an orthopedic plate is disclosed. The method comprises the following steps: providing a stratum comprising a first surface for engaging bone and a second surface opposing said first surface, wherein the stratum comprises a fastener hole for receiving a fastener, wherein the fastener has a head and a shaft; providing a retaining element comprising a head and a shaft; creating a retaining hole for receiving the retaining element, wherein the retaining element extends through at least the second surface; placing the retaining element into the retaining hole to reach a fully-inserted position; cutting a portion of the head of the retaining element such that the head of the fastener can be inserted through the fastener hole and pass by the head of the retaining element to reach a fully-inserted position of the fastener. Also, an orthopedic plate made using the disclosed method is disclosed.