US Patent 7967826 Connector transfer tool for internal structure stabilization systems

A tool is described for use in a stabilization system for bony structures such as vertebrae, where the system involves connected a connector from one bone anchor in a vertebra to a second bone anchor in another vertebra. The tool includes a handle attached to an arm. The arm is connected by a pivot to a connector engagement mechanism, the pivot allowing the connector engagement mechanism to move from an orientation inline with the arm to an orientation at an angle relative to the arm by rotating at the pivot. The connector engagement mechanism is engaged to an end of the connector when the tool is in its inline orientation and by causing the movement, which can be by the movement of a lever on the handle, of the connector engagement mechanism to the angled orientation, the end of the connector is moved into a position for engagement with the second bone anchor.