US Patent 7153312 Closure device and method for tissue repair

A surgical method includes positioning a fixation member relative to tissue, moving a flexible member coupled to the fixation member relative to the fixation member to bring two tissue surfaces together, and moving a retaining element coupled to the flexible member relative to the fixation member. The retaining element acts to limit loosening of the flexible member relative to the fixation member. An apparatus for repairing a tear in soft tissue includes first and second fixation members, a flexible member substantially immovably secured to the first fixation member and movably coupled to the second fixation member, and a retaining element coupled to the flexible member. In another embodiment, an apparatus for repairing a tear in soft tissue includes a fixation member, and a flexible member movably coupled to the fixation member. A first end of the flexible member is looped back and secured to the flexible member.