A method of providing access to an intervertebral disc has been developed that involves using the patient's bony pedicle as an anchoring spot for a pedicle screw that temporarily attaches to the access port. Because this new procedure eliminates the need for the surgical table as an anchor, it also eliminates the assembly components extending from the table to the port at the access site, thereby unencumbering the surgeon's view and workspace while providing minimally invasive access. One key element of the method is an assembly comprising:a) a screw extension comprising a shaft having a distal end portion comprising a receiver adapted for receiving a screw and a proximal end portion comprising a pivoting feature,b) a port comprising: j) a tubular wall defining a central passageway,ii) a longitudinal slot in the wall defining opposed ends of the wall,iii) opposed flanges extending radially from each end of the wall, andiv) a mating feature disposed in each opposed flanges adapted to pivotally mate with the pivoting feature of the screw extension,wherein the mating feature of the tube pivotally mates with the pivoting feature of the screw extension.
