Described herein are devices, systems and method for assuring that
connection regions (e.g., threaded regions) of stabilization devices are
clear of bone filling materials such as bone cements. A stabilization
device may be referred to as a bone stabilization device or an anchor,
and may be a self-expanding device configured for insertion into bone.
One exemplary clearing device is configured as a plunger-type device for
clearing the connector region by scraping and/or rubbing the surface of
the connector region. A clearing device may include a handle, a rod and a
connector end that is configured to mate with the connector of a
stabilization device. The connector end may include one or more scraping
surfaces (e.g., edges) and may include a vacuum port for removing
material such as scraped bone cement.