Patent attributes
Orthopedic fixation devices, assemblies, and methods for securing a spinal rod. The orthopedic fixation device may include a tulip head with one or more internal components configured to secure a bone fastener. The tulip head may house a breakable shear clip that has an initial solid form. When the bone fastener is loaded into the tulip head, the shear clip breaks forming a split ring that expands radially outward to accept the screw head. Then, the shear clip collapses around the screw head, thereby securing the bone fastener to the tulip head. A spinal rod may be secured in the tulip head, for example, with a locking cap.