| abstract |
(57) Summary A surgical implant (20) is made from a single string (21) of flexible biocompatible material (such as polyester), at each end. A skein body with at least one bend (22) and a tail (25) extending from one end and a crimpable sleeve-like element () surrounding the overlapping end (27) of the cord. 26) and are provided. An implant (20) is shown used to stabilize the spine, with the bend (22) in the lamina (47) of one vertebra (24) and the condyle (23) of the adjacent vertebra. Hanged on their respective engaging hook members (30, 39), the cord material (21) is taut by pulling on the tail (25) before crimping the sleeve-like element (26). |