retrieving polyaxial tulip-head pedicle screws in revision spine surgery: a technical note

Background and aim: tulip-head screws are among the many implant systems developed with advances in spinal surgery. a screw is retrieved during revision spine surgery to be replaced with a larger diameter screw or before different types of osteotomies. this study aims to provide a simple and practical method to retrieve tulip-head screws during revision spine surgery or implant removal. methods and materials/patients: we provide a step-by-step description of the technique, which requires only an allen wrench, an anti-torque wrench, and a one-inch rod. the technique is easily and routinely applied in revision spine surgery to retrieve tulip-head screws without any complications. conclusion: our method is a simple and practical way to remove tulip-head polyaxial screws.