Abstract: A method for surgically preparing a spinal fixation construct that includes a first support rod and a tulip with a socket shaped to receive a second support rod. A tether anchor is installed in the tulip socket and a tether is fixed to the tether anchor and to a vertebra. In a subsequent revision surgery, the tether and the tether anchor are removed. Then a second support rod is installed in the socket of the tulip. Preferably, before installing the tether anchor, a first end of a rod-to-rod connector is connected to the first support rod. The second, opposite end of the rod-to-rod connector has the tulip socket formed on it to which the tether anchor is initially installed. In the subsequent revision surgery, after removal of the tether anchor, the second support rod is installed in the socket of the tulip on the rod-to-rod connector.

Abstract: An insert for convertibly anchoring an artificial ligament tether in a tulip of a spinal fixation construct. A prior art tulip has a socket with opposite end openings and configured in size and shape to receive a spinal longitudinal support rod. A tulip also has a clamping screw threadedly engaged to the tulip to clamp a support rod in the socket. The invention is an insert body having an exterior configured to conformingly seat against a surface of the tulip socket and also having a passageway extending entirely through the insert body in a direction to extend between the end openings of the tulip. A surgeon inserts a tether through the passageway and rotates the clamping screw to translate the clamping screw against the insert body. Rotation of the clamping screw clamps the tether to the insert body and clamps the insert body to the tulip.

Abstract: A pedicle screw of the type used in spinal fixation surgery has integral structure for anchoring artificial ligament tape. A tape-receiving passageway is formed through the tulip assembly of the pedicle screw. The passageway has open ends and is configured to receive an artificial ligament tape threaded through the passageway. An opening is formed in the tulip assembly, transversely intersecting the passageway and opening to the exterior of the tulip assembly. A clamping member is movable along the opening into clamping engagement against a segment of the artificial ligament tape that is threaded through the passageway.