A polyaxial screw assembly includes a pedicle screw, a coupling, an insert, anda housing. The pedicle screw includes a shank having a helical thread formed thereonand a head at one end. The coupling is positioned on top the pedicle screw and releasablyengages portions of the head. The coupling and pedicle screw are positioned withina distal portion of the housing. The pedicle screw is slid through an opening inthe insert and the insert is thread into the distal portion of the housing to retainthe coupling and the pedicle screw within the housing. The pedicle screw is rotatableand pivotable relative to the housing. Compressing the coupling within the housinglocks the pedicle screw in a desired orientation.
