Self retaining set screw inserter

A self-retaining screw inserter comprising:

• an outer shaft defining an axially extending passageway, the outer shaft comprising:
• a distal tip comprising at least two fingers configured to retain a set screw, and
• a proximal end configured to receive an inner shaft;
• and
• an inner shaft comprising a push rod configured to be inserted into the proximal end of the outer shaft and engage the distal tip of the outer shaft,
• wherein when the push rod engages the distal tip, the two or more fingers of the distal tip are moved radially outward allowing the distal tip to retain a set screw.

A method of using a self retaining screw inserter comprising:

• an outer shaft defining an axially extending passageway, the outer shaft comprising a distal tip comprising at least two fingers configured to retain a set screw, and a proximal end configured to receive an inner shaft;
• and
• an inner shaft comprising a push rod configured to be inserted into the proximal end of the outer shaft and engage the distal tip of the outer shaft;
• wherein when the push rod engages the distal tip, the two or more fingers of the distal tip are moved radially outward allowing the distal tip to retain a set screw,
• the method comprising.
• placing a set screw on the distal tip of the outer shaft;
• and
• retaining the set screw by engaging the distal tip of the outer shaft with the push rod of the inner shaft, wherein the two or more fingers of the distal head are moved radially outward to engage the set screw.