Methods and devices for retaining cerclage cable are described. According to one embodiment, a method comprising initiating a surgical procedure wherein an orthopedic device is secured to a bone at least in part with cerclage cable, and wherein the orthopedic device comprises an opening configured to receive a retaining device, providing a retaining device, wherein the retaining devices comprises a shaft, the shaft comprising a proximal end, the proximal end comprising a head containing retaining structure configured to secure the cerclage cable, and whereby the cerclage cable does not thread through an opening in the retaining device, and wherein the shaft further comprises a distal end configured to be inserted through the orthopedic device into the bone, inserting the retaining device through the opening in the orthopedic device and into the bone, securing the cerclage cable in the retaining structure in the proximal end of the retaining device, and completing the surgical procedure with the orthopedic device, cerclage cable, and retaining device in place is described.