Vertebral probes for fusionless spinal surgeries and related surgical methods. In some embodiments, the probe may comprise a shaft having one or more tapering portions. Some embodiments may further comprise one or more non-tapering portions. The probe may further comprise a distal tip extending from a shelf or ledge that may allow for penetration of the tip therethrough with a first force and be configured to inhibit further advancement of the probe by requiring a second force substantially greater than the first force to achieve further advancement.