An alignment rod aligns first and second vertebra screw insertion assemblies during a spinal surgical procedure. The alignment rod includes a body portion that is adapted to engage and align the first and second vertebra screw insertion assemblies during a spinal surgical procedure. The alignment rod also includes a positioning post extending from the body portion and adapted to be engaged by a positioning tool adapted to position the alignment rod relative to one of the first and second vertebra screw insertion assemblies.
