Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for attaching connective tissue to each other or to underlying bone is described. The invention includes a band with latching grooves to engage a detached clamping head. At one end of the band is an opening through which the other end of the band may pass to allow the band to form a loop. The end of the band is then inserted into the detached clamping head which has a ratcheting pawl which engages the grooves in the band to hold the band and prevent its slipping. The band may also have a bulb element at or near the end of the band with the opening. There may also be a number of disk or bulb elements to distribute the force on the tissue. The band may also have varying width to provide different force on the tissues. The band and clamping head may be manufactured of biocompatable polymers such as implantation grade nylon, polyethylene or biosoluble material. A method for use of the present invention to repair a torn rotator cuff is also described.

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First Claim