Importance

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Abstract

A pedicle screw assembly includes a fastener having an expandable head. The expandable head has an outer surface including a convex portion, a recess having an inner surface and defining an inner dimension, and at least one slot extending between the inner and outer surfaces thereof. The assembly also has an insert positionable at least partially in the recess having an outer surface defining an outer dimension that is greater than the inner dimension of the recess. The assembly includes a coupling element including a rod receiving opening, a bore for the fastener, and a seat for receiving the head of the fastener and allowing the fastener and coupling element to pivot relative to one another before being locked in place. After an orthopedic rod is positioned within the coupling element, a locking element associated with the coupling element locks the orthopedic rod in the rod-receiving opening. The locking element applies a force onto the rod to in turn force the insert into the recess of the expandable head for expanding the outer surface of the head against the seat of the coupling element and locking the coupling element and fastener from further pivotal movement relative to one another.

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First Claim