Bone fixation tensioning tool and method

A tensioning tool for applying controlled tension to a conformable ligature of a bone fixing device, comprising:

• a tool body having a proximal end and a distal end, the tool body defining a slot extending along a portion thereof;
• a connector at the distal end of the tool body configured to interface with a ligature capturing element of a bone fixing device attached to a spinal rod;
• a threaded drive shaft running through at least a portion of the tool body, the threaded drive shaft having a central rotational axis;
• a carriage movable along the slot via rotation of the threaded drive shaft, the carriage defining a drive shaft passage having a thread engaging portion to engage threads on the drive shaft and wherein the drive shaft passes through the drive shaft passage;
• a tensioning member coupled to the carriage, the tensioning member configured to engage the conformable ligature of the bone fixing device;
• wherein rotation of the drive shaft such that the carriage moves away from the connector applies a tensioning force to the conformable ligature to tension the conformable ligature around a bony structure;
• and
• wherein the tensioning member is pivotable about an axis generally perpendicular to the central rotational axis of the threaded drive shaft.