AU6241900A

AU6241900A - Surgical cable system and method

Info

Publication number: AU6241900A
Application number: AU62419/00A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Robert J Jones; Erik J. Wagner
Original assignee: Zimmer Spine Austin Inc
Current assignee: Zimmer Spine Inc
Priority date: 1997-08-26
Filing date: 2000-10-02
Publication date: 2000-12-14
Anticipated expiration: 2018-07-07
Also published as: AU743254B2

Description

P/00/011 Regulation 3.2

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 COMPLETE SPECIFICATION FOR A DIVISIONAL PATENT

ORIGINAL

*0 TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT Name of Applicant: SPINAL CONCEPTS, INC.

Actual Inventor(s): ERIK J. WAGNER; ROBERT J. JONES Address for Service: CALLINAN LAWRIE, 711 High Street, Kew, Victoria 3101, Australia Invention Title: SURGICAL CABLE SYSTEM AND METHOD The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to me:- 29/09/00gcl 1595 TITLE: SURGICAL CABLE SYSTEM AND METHOD BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION I. Field of the Invention The present invention generally relates to surgical cable systems and the like. More particularly, an embodiment of the invention relates to a method and apparatus for securing surgical cable around a portion of a human bone.

2. Description of the Related Art Surgical cables are used in a variety of surgical procedures, some examples include: spine surgery; e* total hip arthroplasty; fracture fixation; closure of the sternum following open heart surgery; and oral/facial e*eee 15 surgery to repair mandibular fractures. In these and other surgical procedures the cable may be used to set and secure bone portions in the proper orientation during the healing process.

S* Fractures of the vertebrae in the spinal column are very difficult to immobilize, often requiring the use of internal pins, cables and/or rods. One frequently used procedure involves wiring the fractured vertebra to one or more adjacent vertebrae to secure the vertebra in an ideal position for healing. Another method involves wiring the fractured vertebra to a rod that is similarly joined to other vertebrae. Both of these methods, as well "as other techniques for spinal repair, rely on the use of cables which are secured around a portion of a vertebra.

A number of methods for encircling bone portions with surgical cables have been developed. Most of these techniques involve passing a cable around a portion of the bone and securing the cable in position using a crimp. Example of cabling apparatus and methods are illustrated in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,966,600; 5,395,374; 5,415,658; 5,423,820, and 5,569,253. Each of these patents is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

The AcromedTM Cable System by Songer, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,600, represents a cabling system that relies on the use of a metal crimp member to secure a cable in a loop. In one embodiment of the AcromedTM system a crimp member is affixed to one end of the cable. The cable may then be passed partially through a connector. The crimp member may inhibit the cable from passing entirely through the connector. The cable may then be looped around the bone portion and passed again through the connector. A tensioning device is used to tighten the cable around the bone portion, and another crimp member is applied to the portion of the wire extending out from the connector to fix the cable in position.

The AcromedTM system relies on crimp members to attempt to irreversibly secure the cable in position.

This feature may present difficulties if a number of cables are used in series since it is often necessary to retighten some of the cables as other cables are added. To overcome this problem a double crimp technique is commonly used. In this technique the cable is passed through two crimp members before the cable is tensioned.

After tensioning, the top crimp member may be affixed to the cable. When the cable becomes loosened, it may be re-tensioned and the lower crimp member affixed to the cable. The upper crimp member may be trimmed off after the second crimp member is fastened to the cable. A disadvantage of this approach is that the number of re-tensions that may be performed is determined by the number of crimp members attached to the cable before the initial tensioning. If additional re-tensioning is required after the last crimp member has been attached to the cable, the cable may need to be removed and a new cable attached.

An orthopedic cable apparatus manufactured by Danek Medical Inc., as shown in US. Pat Nos.

5,395,374 and 5,423,820, appears to overcome these problems. The apparatus consists of three separate parts: a double-apertured L-shaped crimp; a cable clamp; and a tensioning tool. The Danek system affixes one end of the cable to the double-apertured L-shaped crimp. The cable is then looped around the bone portion and passed through the other aperture of the L-shaped crimp. The cable is then passed through a cable clamp, and further through a tensioner. The tensioning device is used to tighten the cable around the vertebra. Once the appropriate tension is achieved the cable clamp is tightened to temporarily fix the cable in position. Since the cable clamp acts as a non-permanent securing device, the user is free to re-tension the cable a number of times during use. When the user is finished, the cable is fixed into position by crimping the second crimp portion of the L-shaped crimp onto the cable. The Danek cabling system avoids the need for multiple crimps, as used by the AcromedTM system, however, it still relies on crimps to secure the cable in position.

A disadvantage to the use of crimps for securing a cable in position is that the crimps may be highly unreliable. The crimps are typically compressed by the user to affix them to the cable. However, it may be very difficult to control the percentage of deformation of the crimp such that a predictable and consistent amount of deformation may be produced. If the crimp is over deformed some of the cable strands may be sheared off, reducing the strength of the cable at the connection. Conversely, if the crimp is under deformed, the crimp may be incapable of preventing the cable from loosening after the procedure is finished.

Another problem encountered when using cable systems is that they force the cable into a specific position relative to the point where the cable crosses itself. In some cases there is an advantage for the ends of the cable to be in a parallel orientation. Such an orientation allows a minimal profile of the connector. A low profile width is generally desired to minimize sinus formation and soft tissue irritation. The parallel orientation may sometimes cause a sharp bend in the cable, thereby creating stress in the system. To overcome this stress it is desirable for the ends of the cable to be in a perpendicular orientation relative to each other.

The AcromedTM apparatus, as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 4,966,600, may be used in a number of ways in order to achieve the desired cable orientation. In one method the cable comprises a permanently looped eyelet end. The other end of the cable may be passed through the eyelet to form a loop in which the ends of the cable are oriented in a perpendicular fashion. In another method the ends of the cable may be held in a parallel orientation by using a special connector designed for this purpose. The Danek system, as shown in U.S. Pat.

No. 5,569,253, is also designed for use with the ends of the cable in a parallel or perpendicular orientation. The Danek system relies on the use of specially designed connectors for each orientation. Neither the Acromed or the Danek systems describe a single connector which would allow the cable to be positioned in both a parallel and a perpendicular orientation.

The above mentioned methods and systems inadequately address, among other things, the need for an apparatus that allows re-tensioning of the cable, as well as multiple orientations of the cable. The devices also rely on crimps affixed to the cables to hold the cable in place. As mentioned before, such crimps may be unreliable. It is therefore desirable that a cable system be derived that incorporates, in a single device, the ability to allow the cable to be re-tensioned, a non-crimping securing mechanism, and multiple cable S orientations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An embodiment of the invention relates to a surgical cable system that preferably includes a connector adapted to hold a cable in a loop around a human bone element and a tensioner. The connector may include a connector body, a cable, and a pin adapted to secure the cable within the connector body. The term "cable" within the context of this application is taken to mean an elongated flexible member. The term "pin" within the context of this application is taken to mean an elongated inflexible member.

The connector body preferably includes a first arm and a second arm, an internal cavity, and at least S IS two ducts. The first and second arms preferably extend from the same face of the connector body such that the connector body is substantially U-shaped. The internal cavity preferably runs longitudinally through the entire Sconnector body and passes in between the two arms. The ducts preferably run transversally through the entire connector body, perpendicular to the internal cavity. The ducts are preferably oriented such that the ends of a cable, when the cable is passed through the ducts to form a loop, may be oriented in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to each other. The ducts are preferably located proximate to the internal cavity. The connector body may contain at least one aperture that is positioned between a duct and the internal cavity. The connector body preferably contains two apertures that connect two separate ducts to the internal cavity. The ducts, the apertures, and the internal cavity are oriented with respect to one another such that a cable passing through the duct may extend through the aperture into the internal cavity.

The cable is preferably substantially flexible such that the cable may form a loop for engaging a portion of a human bone. The cable is preferably of a diameter such that the cable may pass freely through a duct. The cable is also preferably of a diameter such that it may extend from the duct, through the aperture, and into the internal cavity. The cable preferably includes a tip which may inhibit the end of the cable from passing through the duct.

The pin comprises an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion may have a diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of the internal cavity such that the upper portion of the pin is inhibited from passing through the internal cavity. The lower portion of the pin may have a diameter that is substantially less than the diameter of the internal cavity such that the lower portion of the pin fits within the internal cavity.

The pin may be positionable within the internal cavity where it may exert a compressive force against the cable to secure the cable within the internal cavity. The cable may be looped around a bone and through the ducts. Subsequently, positioning the pin within the connector body may secure the cable in place. While the cable is secured the cable is no longer able to move within the connector. The bottom edge of the pin may be deformed to secure the pin within the internal cavity.

More preferably, the pin is placed within the internal cavity of the connector body before the cable is threaded. The pin may be secured within the internal cavity by deforming the bottom edge of the pin. Removal of the pin may be inhibited by the deformed bottom edge. The pin may be substantially rotatable while positioned within the internal cavity. The upper portion of the pin may contain at least two flat edges, the edges being oriented on opposing sides of the upper portion of the pin. The distance between the two edges may be less than the distance between the two arms extending from the connector body. The arms may interact with the edges such that rotation of the pin is hindered. The pin may be rotatable when sufficient force is applied to overcome the hindering force of the arms.

The pin preferably includes two grooves. The grooves may be aligned with the apertures, when the pin is inserted within the internal cavity, such that the cable may pass freely through the connector body. The pin may also be rotated, while the pin is inserted within the internal cavity, such that the grooves are perpendicular to the apertures. The rotation of the pin, after a cable has been threaded through the connector body, may exert a compressive force against the cable to secure it within the connector body. The pin may be subsequently rotated to allow free movement of the cable through the connector body.

a 15 The pin may further include an opening extending longitudinally through the entire pin. The opening preferably includes a top section and a bottom section. The top section preferably has a diameter that is e• substantially greater than the diameter of the end of the cable. The lower section preferably has a diameter that is substantially less than the diameter of the tip of the cable. The cable may be passed through the opening, with the tip of the cable positioned within the opening, and further through a duct to form a loop. The pin may be 20 positioned within the internal cavity to secure the cable in place, while the cable is passed through the opening and the duct. When secured in this position the cable may be oriented in a substantially perpendicular orientation.

The cable may be passed through the ducts of the connector body such that the ends of the cable are oriented in a substantially parallel orientation. Alternatively the cable may be passed through the opening of the pin and through a duct to form a loop, the ends of the cable being in a substantially perpendicular orientation.

The surgical cable system may also include a tensioner adapted to vary the tension of the cable and secure the cable. The tensioner preferably includes a body, a shaft for contacting the connector, a driver for positioning the pin within the connector body, and an arm for adjusting the shaft.

The shaft is preferably mounted within the body, such that it extends from both sides of the body. The arm and the shaft are preferably connected such that the arm is capable of being adjusted to retract or extend the shaft from an end of the body. The body may include a stopper which secures the position of the shaft with respect to the body.

The shaft preferably includes a tip adapted to hold the connector. The tip may include a recessed opening which is shaped to couple to the connector. The shaft may also include an opening extending longitudinally through the shaft. The opening of the shaft is preferably adapted to allow the driver to pass through the shaft and onto the connector.

The body may include a cable clamp adapted to secure the cable against a portion of the body. The body preferably includes at least two cable clamps. The cable clamps may secure the cable against a portion of the body after the cable is threaded through the connector and around a portion of a human bone. The shaft may engage the connector, after the cable has been secured with respect to the body, such that movement of the shaft causes the tension of the cable to vary.

The driver may include an end adapted to engage the pin of the connector. The driver preferably S includes a handle to allow the driver to be moved in a circular motion. The shaft preferably includes an opening, extending longitudinally through the shaft, that allows the driver to engage the pin while the connector is in contact with the shaft. The driver may engage the pin such that rotation of the driver causes the pin to rotate into a position which secures the cable within the connector. While the cable is secured the cable is no longer able to move within the connector. Subsequent to securing the cable, the driver may be rotated to cause the pin to move into a position which allows the cable to-once again have mobility within the connector.

In another embodiment, a protrusion may be built onto the upper portion of a pin. The protrusion is preferably configured to interact with a locking portion built onto the connector body such that the protrusion and the locking portion together inhibit rotation of the pin. The connector body preferably includes a locking Sportion made up of at least one projection. The locking portion preferably extends along the side of the •15 connector body. The projection preferably includes an opening for receiving the protrusion.

The protrusion is preferably oriented away from the locking portion when the pin is in an unlocked position. When the pin is in an unlocked position the cable may be free to move through the connector. When the pin is in a locking position the cable is preferably inhibited from moving through the connector. In the locked position the pin is positioned such that the protrusion now lies within the opening formed by projections.

The flat edge of the protrusion preferably engages the flat edge of the projection to inhibit rotation of the pin.

While rotation of the pin in a first direction is substantially inhibited, the pin may be turned in an opposite direction. When rotated in a first direction, the rounded edge of the protrusion contacts the projection of the locking portion to slightly inhibit the rotation of the pin. Applying sufficient rotational force to the pin may cause the projection to deflect slightly outward, providing sufficient space for the protrusion to be rotated past the projection and away from the locking portion. In this manner the pin may be Moved into a unlocked Sposition.

In another embodiment, a connector including two locking portions may be used in conjunction with a pin including two protrusions. The first locking portion of the connector is preferably oriented opposite a second locking portion. The pin preferably includes two protrusions oriented opposite to each other. Each protrusion preferably includes a rounded side and a flat side.

When the cable is to be secured within the connector, the pin may be rotated in a first direction.

Rotation in this direction preferably moves the pin into a locking position. When the pin is positioned in this locking orientation the protrusions move into the openings of locking portions. Thus, the action of securing the cable by rotating the pin preferably moves the protrusions into a position such that rotation in a direction opposite to the direction for securing the cable is inhibited.

An advantage of the present invention is that the cable may be secured or movable within the connector as necessary.

Another advantage of the present invention is that the cable may be secured into position without the use of crimps.

Yet another advantage is that the present invention may allow the ends of the cable to be in a perpendicular orientation with respect to each other or a parallel orientation with respect to each other.

The use of two projections and two locking portions has the advantage that the pin may be secured in a locked position whenever the cable is secured within the connector body. Additionally, the two projections may provide increased resistance to rotation of the pin in a clockwise direction when the pin is in a locked position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Further advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art with the benefit of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and upon reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 depicts a side view of a connector; 15 Figure 2 depicts a perspective view of a cable; Figure 3 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector as viewed from the side; Figure 4 depicts a cross sectional view of a pin as viewed facing a groove from the front face; Figure 5 depicts a side view of the pin; Figure 6 depicts a cross sectional view of the pin as viewed from the front; 20 Figure 7 depicts a top view of the connector with the cable forming a loop by entering a first face opposite to a second face from which it exits; Figure 8 depicts a top view of a connector with the cable forming a loop by entering the same face from which it exits; Figure 9 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector in a secured position, with a portion of the cable residing in an opening of the pin, as viewed from the side of the connector; i Figure 10 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector, with the cable being movable within the connector body, as viewed from the side; Figure 11 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector, with the cable being secured in an immobile position within the connector, as viewed from the side; Figure 12 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector, with the cable being movable within the connector body, as viewed from the bottom; Figure 13 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector, with the cable secured in an immobile position within the connector body, as viewed from the bottom; Figure 14 depicts a perspective view of a tensioner; Figure 15 depicts a cross sectional view of a body of the tensioner, as viewed from the side; Figure 16 depicts a rear view of the body of the tensioner; Figure 17 depicts a cross sectional view of the tensioner, as viewed from the side; Figure 18 depicts a tip of a shaft of the tensioner, as viewed from the front; Figure 19 depicts the tip of the shaft as viewed from the side; Figure 20 depicts a cross-sectional view of a bushing cover of the tensioner as viewed from the side of the bushing cover, Figure 21 depicts a side view of the bushing cover, Figure 22 depicts a top view of the bushing cover, and Figure 23 depicts a cross sectional partial view of the bushing cover with a cable clamp, as viewed from the side.

Figure 24a depicts a perspective view of a connector with a single locking projection.

Figure 24b depicts a perspective view of a connector with a pair of projections defining an opening.

Figure 25a depicts a top view of a connector with a single locking projection in an unlocked position.

Figure 25b depicts a top view of a connector with a single locking projection in a locked position.

Figure 26a depicts a top view of a connector with a pair of locking projections in an unlocked position.

Figure 26b depicts a top view of a connector with a pair of locking projections in a locked position.

15 While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific *embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of a connector 20 constructed according to the teachings of the present invention. The connector 20 includes a connector body 24 and a pin 22. A cable 10 nay be passed through the ducts 26 to form a loop for engaging a portion of a human bone. The cable 10 may be looped around a variety of human bone portions involved in various surgical procedures. The surgical procedures which may make use of a surgical cable system include, but are not limited to: spine surgery; total hip arthroplasty; fracture fixation; closure of the sternum following open heart surgery; and oral/facial surgery to repair mandibular fractures. The cable 10 is preferably used for engaging a portion of the human spine.

The term "cable" within the context of this application is taken to mean an elongated flexible member.

An embodiment of the cable 10 is illustrated in Figure 2. The cable 10 includes a leader portion 12, a main portion 14, and a tip 16. The main portion 14 is preferably comprised of a substantially flexible stranded metal wire. The main portion 14 may be comprised of any substantially flexible material including, but not limited to, steel, nylon, or various plastics. The main portion 14 is preferably made of titanium or stainless steel.

The cable 10 preferably has a leader portion 12 attached to an end of the cable. The leader portion 12 may comprise a non-stranded wire that is substantially less flexible than the main portion 14. The leader portion 12 may be comprised of any substantially flexible material including, but not limited to, steel, nylon, or various plastics. The leader portion 12 is preferably made of titanium or stainless steel. The leader portion 12 is preferably made of the same material as the main portion 14 of the cable 10. The leader portion 12 may be used to guide the cable 10 around the bone and through the various openings of the connector The cable 10 may include a tip 16 attached to an end of the cable. The tip 16 is preferably of a diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of the main portion 14. The tip 16 may be made of the same material as the main portion. The tip 16 is preferably made of titanium or stainless steel. The tip 16 may be larger than the diameter of the ducts 26, (shown in Figure such that the tip 16 is inhibited from passing through the ducts. Thus, tip 16 may function to prevent the cable 10 from passing entirely through the ducts 26.

The cable 10 is preferably made by twisting together multiple wire strands around a cable core. The wire strands are preferably made by twisting six filaments around a central filament in a helical orientation. The filaments may be made by reducing the diameter of a wire to a thickness of less than .005 inches, and more preferably to a diameter of.003 inches. The cable core is preferably made by twisting six wire strands over a central strand in a helical orientation. The cable 10 is preferably made by twisting twelve strands over the cable Score. After the strands are twisted to form the cable 10, the cable may be hammered repeatedly to give a 15 smooth surface. The cable 10 may be cut into the appropriate length by a cutting apparatus. The cable 10 is preferably cut by a laser. By applying tension on the cable 10 during the cutting process an end of the cable may be formed into ail enlarged tip 16. The leader portion 12 may be welded onto an end of the cable 10 before use. The cable may be cleaned repeatedly during the manufacturing procedure.

Figure 3 depicts a cross sectional view of the connector body 24 of the connector 20. The connector body 24 preferably includes an internal cavity 28 for holding a pin 22 within the connector body 24. The internal cavity 28 may be substantially cylindrical in shape and preferably passes longitudinally through the entire connector body 24. The connector body 24 may include a duct 26 that passes transversally through the entire connector body. The duct 26 is preferably oriented substantially perpendicular to the internal cavity 28.

The connector body 24 preferably includes at least two ducts 26 that pass transversally through the entire connector body. The ducts 26 preferably communicate with the internal cavity 28 via an aperture 30. The ducts *o 26 are preferably positioned such that a cable 10 lying within the duct may extend into the internal cavity 28.

The pin 22 preferably includes an upper portion 36 and a lower portion 40, as depicted in Figure 4.

The pin 22 may also include a transition portion 38 oriented between the upper portion 36 and the lower portion The upper portion 36 is preferably of a diameter substantially larger than the diameter of the lower portion 40. The upper portion 36 is preferably of a diameter such that it is incapable of passing into the internal cavity 28. The lower portion 40 of the pin 22 is preferably of a diameter such that the lower portion may fit into the internal cavity 28 (shown in Figure The diameter of the transition portion 38 may be variable, becoming narrower in a direction from the upper portion 36 toward the lower portion 40. The bottom of the pin 43 may be deflected outward to substantially secure the pin 22 within the internal cavity 28.

In another embodiment, the pin 22 preferably includes two grooves 42, as depicted in Figure 5. The grooves 42 may be substantially rectangular in shape, comprising a width that is substantially larger than the diameter of the cable 10. The grooves 42 are preferably oriented on opposing sides of the lower portion 40 of the pin 22. Referring to Figure 9, the pin 22 may lie within the internal cavity 28 such that the grooves 42 lie in the plane defined by the ducts 26. The grooves 42 may be substantially aligned with the ducts 26, with an aperture 30 positioned between each duct and groove. The pin 22 may be oriented within the internal cavity 28, with the grooves 42 substantially aligned with the ducts 26, such that the cable 10 may pass freely through the connector body 24. The pin 22 may also be oriented within the internal cavity 28, with the grooves 42 positioned substantially perpendicular to the ducts 26, such that the cable 10 is secured within the connector body 24.

In another embodiment, the pin 22 preferably includes an opening 44, as depicted in Figure 6. The opening 44 is preferably substantially cylindrical in shape and preferably passes longitudinally through the entire pin 22. The pin may surround a portion of the opening such that the opening is U-shaped or V-shaped.

The pin preferably surrounds the entire opening. The opening 44 preferably includes an upper portion 46 and a lower portion 48. The pin 22 may also include a transition portion 47 oriented between the upper potion 46 and the lower portion 48. The upper portion 46 is preferably of a diameter substantially larger than the diameter of the lower portion 48. The diameter of the upper portion 46 is preferably substantially larger than the diameter of the tip 16 of cable 10. The diameter of the lower portion 48 is preferably substantially smaller than the 15 diameter of the tip 16 of cable 10. In this manner, the opening 44 may prevent a cable 10, having a tipl6, from passing completely through the opening.

The upper portion 46 of the opening 44 may be chosen to couple with any suitable device adapted to apply a torsional force. The upper portion 46 may be substantially rectangular for receiving a flat head torsioning device, such as a screw driver. The upper portion 46 may also be substantially cross shaped for receiving a cross shaped head of a torsioning device, such as a Phillips head screwdriver. The upper portion 46 is preferably hexagonal in shape for receiving a hexagonal head of a torsioning device, such as an Allen wrench.

Figures 7 depicts a connector 20 with a cable 10 threaded through the connector body 24 to form a loop according to one embodiment. The cable 10 is preferably threaded through a duct 26, around a human bone element, and back through a separate duct 26 to form a loop. The loop is formed such that the ends of the cable 10 lie in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to each other. The cable 10 is preferably threaded through a duct 26, around a human bone element, and back through another duct to form a loop, reentering the connector body 24 from the face 35 on the side opposite to the face 33 which the cable initially exited. The pin 22 may be inserted within the connector body 24, after the cable 10 has been looped around a human bone element and passed through the connector body 24 to secure the cable within the connector body. The pin 22 may be removed from the connector body 24, subsequent to securing the cable 10 within the connector body, to allow the cable to be moved within the connector body. Removal of the pin 22 may be prevented by deforming the bottom of the pin.

Figure 8 depicts another embodiment in which the cable 10 is preferably threaded through a duct 26, around a human bone element, and back through a separate duct to form a loop, reentering the connector body 24 from the same face 33 of the connector body that the cable initially exited. The pin 22 may be inserted within the connector body 24 to secure the cable 10 within the connector body. While the cable 10 is secured the cable is no longer able to move within the connector 20. The pin 22 may be removed from the connector body 24, subsequent to securing the cable 10 within the connector body, to allow the cable to be moved within the connector body.

Figure 9 depicts another embodiment in which the cable 10 is preferably threaded through the opening 44, around a human bone element, and back through a duct 26 to form a loop. In this manner, the ends of the cable 10 may lie in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to each other (not shown). The pin 22 may be inserted within the connector body 24 to secure the cable 10 within the connector body. The pin 22 may be removed from the connector body 24, subsequent to securing the cable 10 within the connector body, to allow the cable to be movable within the connector body. Tension on the cable 10 may pull the tip 16 of the cable against the lower portion 48 of the opening 44. In this manner, the cable 10 may be prevented from moving within the opening 44.

The pin 22 may be positioned within the internal cavity 28 before the cable 10 is threaded through the ducts 26. The cable 10 may be threaded through the ducts 26 of the connector body 24 while the pin 22 is mounted within the internal cavity 28. The pin 22 is preferably oriented such that the grooves 42 of the pin are substantially aligned with the ducts 26, as depicted in Figures 10 and 12. The pin 22 may be rotated, subsequent to the cable 10 being passed through the connector body 24, such that the grooves 42 are 15 substantially perpendicular to the ducts 26. As a result, the ungrooved portion of the pin 22 may compress the cable 10 against the connector body 24, securing the cable, as depicted in Figures 11 and 13. Subsequent to securing the cable 10 within the connector body 24, the pin 22 may be further rotated such that the grooves 42 are once again aligned with the ducts 26. In this manner, the cable 10 may be repeatedly moved and secured within the connector body 24.

20 In another embodiment, the cable 10 may be threaded through the pin 22 and through a duct 26 of the connector body 24, as depicted in Figure 9. The pin 22 may be rotated within the connector body 24 to secure the cable 10 in an immobile position within the connector body. Subsequent to securing the cable 10 in an immobile position within the connector body 24, the pin 22 may be further rotated such that the cable may again be movable within the connector body. Tension on the cable 10 may pull the tip 16 of the cable against 25 the lower portion 48 of the opening 44. In this manner, the cable 10 may be prevented from moving within the opening 44.

The connector body 24 preferably has two substantially flat arms 32 extending out from the top face of the connector body, as depicted in Figure 9. The arms 32 are preferably oriented opposite to each other, and the internal cavity 28 is preferably located between the two arms. The upper portion 36 of the pin 22 may have at least two substantially flat edges 34. The upper portion 36 of the pin 22 more preferably has four substantially flat edges 34 (shown in Figure The edges 34 are preferably oriented on opposing sides of the upper portion 36 of the pin 22. The pin 22 may be mounted within the internal cavity 28 such that the edges 34 are contained by the arms 32 of the connector body 24. The arms 32 may interact with the edges 34 such that rotation of the pin 22 is hindered. The pin 22 may be rotatable when sufficient force is applied to the pin to overcome the hindering force of the arms 32.

As illustrated in Figure 10 the pin 22 may be inserted within the internal cavity 28 and the pin bottom 43 deflected outward. The diameter of the bottom 45 of the internal cavity 28 is preferably tapered, becoming wider in a direction toward the bottom 45 of the connector body 24. The deflection of the bottom 43 of pin 22 is tapered to match the tapering of the internal cavity 28. The pin 22 is preferably rotatable within the internal cavity 28. The lower portion 40 of the pin 22 is preferably of a diameter such that, when positioned within the internal cavity 28, the lower portion may compress the cable 10 against the wall of the duct 26, securing the cable in place.

The cable 10 is preferably formed into a loop and tensioned prior to securing the cable within the connector body 24. When the cable 10 is under tension, the corners of the edge 34 of the pin 22 may rest upon the inner faces of the arms 32. The force exerted by the arms 32 upon the comers of the edges 34 may prevent the pin 22 from rotating due to the tension of the cable 10. The pin 22, however, may be rotated by an operator to a position which allows the cable 10 to be movable through the connector body 24. The force required by the operator to move the pin 22 into an unsecured position is preferably greater than the rotational force exerted on the pin by the cable 10 when in a secured position.

The surgical cable system preferably includes a tensioner 50 adapted to vary the tension of the cable :and secure the cable within the connector 20. A preferred embodiment of the tensioner 50 is depicted in Figure 14. The tensioner 50 preferably includes a body 52, a shaft 58 for contacting the connector 20, a driver 56 for 15 positioning the pin 22 within the connector 20, and an arm 54 for adjusting the position of the shaft 58. The parts of the tensioner 50 may be made of a variety of substantially inflexible materials including, but not limited to, instrument grade stainless steel, aluminum, and various plastics.

Figure 15 depicts a cross sectional side view of the body 52. The body 52 is preferably substantially *rectangular and hollow. The body 52 preferably includes a substantially circular front opening 82 and a substantially oval rear opening 84. The body 52 may also include a bushing holder 86 extending from the front edge 81 of the body. The front opening 82 may pass through the bushing holder 86. The front opening 82 and the rear opening 84 may be aligned such that a rigid, elongated member may be passed through both openings.

The front edge 81 of the body 52 may be uncovered allowing insertion of the arm 54 within the body.

Figure 16 depicts a preferred embodiment of the rear opening 84 of the body 52. The rear opening 84 25 preferably comprises two curved sections and two flat sections. The curved sections may be oriented at the top and the bottom of the rear opening 84. The flat sections may connect the top curved section to the bottom curved section to form a substantially oval opening.

The arm 54 may be substantially hollow and is preferably mounted within the hollow portion of the body 52, as depicted in Figure 17. The arm 54 may be held in place by the arm pin 72. The arm pin 72 may be substantially cylindrical and hollow. The arm pin 72 may extend through the entire arm 54 and partially into the sides of the body 52. The arm pin 72 may be mounted within the body 52 such that the arm 54 is pivotable about the arm pin in a range of about 45 degrees. The arm 54 may be stopped in a forward position when the top 53 of the arm comes into contact with the body 52, as depicted in Figure 17. The arm 54 may be similarly stopped in a rear position when the bottom 55 of the arm 54 comes into contact with the body 52. The sides of the arm 54 preferably extend above the top of the arm to form a substantially U-shaped pocket. The U-shaped pocket may be adapted to hold a push tab pin 88 that may be mounted over the top of the arm 54 extending into the sides of the arm.

Turning to Figure 17, the push tab 64 may be substantially rectangular. The push tab 64 preferably includes a substantially circular aperture. The push tab 64 may rest on the front portion of the push tab pin 88.

The aperture of the push tab 64 is preferably sized such that the shaft 58 may be passed through the aperture.

The push tab 64 is preferably placed within the hollow portion of the body 52. The shaft 58 is preferably fitted through the aperture of the push tab 64, and the lower portion of the push tab is preferably seated against the push tab pin 88. The arm spring 92 may also lie on the shaft 58, preferably positioned between the push tab 64 and the front 81 of the body 52.

The arm 54 is preferably pivotable about the arm pin 72 such that a bottom portion 55 of the arm may be moved toward the rear 83 of the body 52. Rearward motion of the arm 54 preferably causes the push tab pin 88 to move toward the front 81 of the body 52. Push tab 64 preferably rests against the push tab pin 88. Thus, movement of the push tab 64 toward the front 81 preferably makes the push tab pin 88 move in a similar direction. As a result, the push tab 64 may engage the shaft 58, propelling the shaft through the front opening 82 of the body 52. Concurrent with the movement of the arm 54, the push tab 64 may also compress the arm spring 92. In the absence of any pressure on arm 54, the arm spring 92 preferably expands such that the push tab 64, the push tab pin 88, and the arm 54 are returned to their original positions.

15 The body 52 may further include a lock tab 62 and lock spring 94. The lock tab 62 may be substantially rectangular. The lock tab 62 preferably includes a substantially circular aperture. The lock tab 62 may extend downward from the top of the body 52, as depicted in Figure 17. The aperture is preferably sized such that the shaft 58 may be passed through the aperture. The lock spring 94 may also lie on the shaft 58, preferably positioned between the lock tab 62 and the body 52. The lock spring 94 preferably exerts a force on 20 the lock tab 62, forcing it away from the rear 83 of the body 52. Movement of the lock tab 62 in this direction is preferably restricted when the lower portion of the aperture comes into contact with the shaft 58. The force exerted by the lock tab 62 upon the shaft 58 may restrict the rearward motion of the shaft through the body 52.

The lock tab 62 may be moved toward the front 81 of the body 52 such that the aperture no longer comes into contact with the shaft 58. When oriented in this forward position the lock tab 62 may no longer o. 25 restrict the rearward motion of the shaft 58. The lock tab 62 is preferably moved into the forward position to allow the shaft 58 to be moved in a rearward direction within the body 52. Movement of the lock tab 62 toward the front of the body 52 may also compress the lock spring 94. When the pressure being applied to the lock tab 62 is released, the lock spring 94 preferably pushes the lock tab 62 back into its starting position.

The shaft 58 may be a variety of shapes including, but not limited to cylindrical, oval or trapezoidal.

The shaft 58 is preferably substantially cylindrical and hollow. The shaft 58 may include two flat edges 59 (shown in Figure 14) that run longitudinally along the entire length of the shaft 58. The edges 59 are preferably oriented on opposing sides of the shaft 58, giving the shaft a substantially oval shape. Referring back to Figure 16, the rear opening 84 of the body 52 is preferably shaped to allow a shaft 58 of complimentary shape to pass through the rear opening. The rear opening 84 is preferably shaped to inhibit rotation of the shaft 58 within the body 52. The width of the hollow portion of the shaft 58 is slightly greater than the diameter of the driver 56, thereby allowing the driver to freely pass through the shaft. The shaft 58 may also include a knob 96 at an end of the shaft, as depicted in Figure 17. The knob 96 may be a threaded nut which is screwed onto the shaft 58.

The knob 96 may be used to position the shaft 58 within the body 52.

The shaft 58 preferably includes a tip 80 proximate an end of the shaft which is adapted to hold the connector 20. The tip 80 is preferably located at the end of the shaft 58 which extends from the front 81 of the body 52. Figure 18 depicts a preferred embodiment of the tip 80. The tip 80 may be slightly larger than the diameter of the shaft 58. The tip 80 preferably includes two indentations 78 running along the outside surface of the tip. The indentations 78 are preferably oriented on opposing sides of the tip 80. The indentations 78 are preferably sized such that the width of the indentations are substantially greater than the width of the cable The depth of the indentations 78 is preferably tapered, becoming shallower in a direction from the end of the shaft 58 toward the body 52.

The tip 80 may include a recessed opening which is adapted to couple with the connector 20. The front of the tip 80 is depicted in Figure 19. The front of the tip 80 preferably contains a first slot 96 and a second slot 98. The first slot 96 preferably runs across the end of the tip 80, in the plane of the tip 80 formed by the two indentations 78. The second slot 98 preferably runs in a substantially perpendicular orientation to the first slot 96. The depth of the second slot 98 may be substantially greater than the depth of the fst slot 96. The connector 20 may be mounted within the tip 80 such that the ducts 26 are oriented toward the indentations 78 of 15 the tip. This arrangement preferably allows the cable 10 to freely pass through the connector 20 and along the indentations 78 while the connector 20 is mounted within the tip The body 52 may also include a substantially cylindrical and hollow bushing cover 66, as depicted in Figures 20, 21, and 22. The bushing cover 66 preferably includes an upper chamber 100, a lower chamber 102, a divider 104 and two arms 106. The upper chamber 100 is preferably sized such that the bushing cover 66 may 20 be inserted over the bushing holder 86, as depicted in Figure 17. The distance between the divider 104 and the top 101 of the bushing cover 66 may be substantially less than the distance that bushing holder 86 extends out from the body 52. The distance is set such that a space may exist between the bushing cover 66 and the front edge 8lof the body 52. The divider 104 preferably extends partially into the interior of the bushing cover 66, at a distance allowing the shaft 58 to pass through the bushing cover. The lower chamber 102 is preferably sized S" 25 to allow the bushing 60 and the bushing spring 90 to be inserted together within the chamber, as depicted in Figure 17. The arms 106 preferably extend from opposing sides of the bushing cover 66. The end of each arm 106 is preferably shaped into a substantially U-shaped groove, as depicted in Figure 22. The bushing spring is preferably sized to fit within the lower chamber 102. The bushing spring 90 is preferably sized to fit over the bushing Referring back to Figure 17, the body 52 may include a substantially cylindrical and hollow bushing It is preferred that the width of the hollow portion of the bushing 60 and the diameter of the shaft 58 be substantially equal. The shape of the hollow portion is preferably complimentary to the shape of the shaft 58.

The hollow section may extend through the longitudinal axis of the bushing 60. The bushing 60 is preferably mounted within the bushing holder 86. The engagement of the bushing 60 with the shaft 58, while the bushing 60 is mounted within the bushing holder 86, preferably minimizes the lateral movement of the shaft within the body 52. The bushing holder 86 preferably contains female threading. The bushing 60"may include a threaded end, sized to fit the female threading of the bushing holder 86. The threaded end of the bushing 60 preferably engages the bushing holder 86 such that rotation of the bushing in a tightening direction moves the threaded end 13 into the bushing holder.

The bushing 60 is preferably adapted to hold the bushing cover 66 onto the bushing holder 86, whereby the bushing cover is freely rotatable about the bushing holder. The bushing 60 preferably includes a flanged end. The bushing cover 66 and the bushing spring 90 are preferably placed on the bushing holder 86, such that the bushing spring lies within the lower chamber 102 of the bushing cover. The bushing spring may rest against a front edge of the bushing holder 86. The bushing 60 may be fastened by screwing the threaded end into the threaded portion of the bushing holder 86. The flanged end of the bushing 60 preferably presses against the bushing cover 66 to hold the bushing cover against the bushing holder 86. The flanged end of the bushing 60 may also compress the bushing spring 90. The bushing spring 90 is adapted to prevent the bushing 60 from being overtightened. Overtightening of the bushing 60 might hinder or prevent rotation of the bushing cover 66 about the bushing holder 86.

Figure 23 depicts a portion of the bushing cover 66 which preferably includes a cable clamp 68 adapted to secure a cable 10 against a portion of the bushing cover. The bushing cover 66 preferably includes at least two cable clamps 68. The cable clamp 68 preferably includes a lever 76, a pin 70, and a spring 108. The 15 lever 76 may include a substantially hollowed out portion 109 and a clamping portion 110. The lever 76 is *o preferably connected to an arm 106 of the bushing cover 66 with a substantially cylindrical pin 70. The pin may extend through both the lever 76 and the U-shaped groove of the arm 106. The pin 70 may be mounted within the U-shaped groove of the arm 106 such that the lever 76 is pivotable about the pin.

e. The spring 108 preferably lies on the pin 70 and extends into the bushing cover 66 and along the lever 20 76. The spring 108 preferably extends into the hollow portion of the lever 76. In its resting position spring 108 preferably exerts a force against the inside edge of the hollow portion 109 such that the lever 76 is moved away from the bushing cover 66. When the hollow portion 109 extends away from the bushing cover 66, the clamping portion 110 is preferably disposed against the bushing cover. When pressed with sufficient force the lever 76 may pivot around the pin 70 such that the clamping portion 110 is no longer in contact with the 25 bushing cover 66. The cable 10 may be passed under the lever 76 while the clamping portion 110 is in its raised position. The depression of the clamp lever 76 preferably compresses the spring 108. Removal of the force being applied to the lever 76 preferably allows the spring 108 to expand, thereby forcing the clamping portion 110 to return to the bushing cover 66. If a cable 10 is present when the force is released from the lever 76, the clamping portion 110 may become pressed against the cable, securing it in place against the bushing cover 66.

The arm spring 92 and the lock spring 94 may be compression springs. The spring 108 of the cable lock 68 is preferably a torsion spring. The bushing spring 90 is preferably a spring washer. The term "spring washer" in the context of this application is meant to mean a spring adapted to apply a predetermined force on adjacent members in an assembly.

Referring back to Figure 17, the driver 56 may include a handle 114 attached to the elongated member 112 of the driver. The handle 114 is preferably a rod that is attached to the elongated member 112 in a perpendicular orientation, such that the driver 56 is substantially T-shaped. The handle 114 may be rotated to allow the driver 56 to be moved in tortionally. The elongated member 112 may be substantially longer than the shaft 58. The driver 56 preferably includes a head 116 adapted to engage the pin 22 of the connector 20. The head 116 is preferably located at an end of the elongated member 1 12 opposite to the handle 1 14. The shape of head 116 may be chosen to couple with a pin 22 of suitably recessed shape such that rotation of the handle may apply a tortional force to the pin. The head 116 is preferably hexagonal in shape for coupling with the hexagonal recess of the upper portion 46 of the opening 44 of the pin 22.

The shaft 58 may be substantially cylindrical and hollow. The hollow portion of the shaft 58 is preferably sized such that the elongated portion 112 of the driver 56 may be passed through the center of the shaft. The shaft 58 is configured such that the driver 56 may engage the pin 22 while the connector 20 is in contact with the shaft. The driver 56 may engage the pin 22 such that rotation of the driver 56 causes the pin to rotate. The driver 56 preferably engages the pin 22 such that rotation of the driver causes the pin 22 to rotate into a position which secures the cable 10 within the connector 20. Once the cable 10 has been clamped into this position, the driver 56 may engage the pin 22 such that rotation of the driver causes the pin to rotate into a position which allows movement of the cable within the connector S"The surgical procedure for implanting a surgical cable system around a portion of a human bone includes forming a loop around the desired portion, tensioning the cable 10, and securing the cable within the 15 connector 20. The loop is preferably formed by threading the cable 10 through the connector 20, around a o. portion of the human bone and back through the connector. In an embodiment, the cable 10 may be looped oo around two or more adjacent vertebra. In another embodiment the cable 10 may be passed around a vertebra and a spinal fixation device. The spinal fixation device is adapted to immobilize a section of the human spine and may be a rod.

As depicted in Figure 7, the cable 10 may be passed through a duct 26 of the connector 20, around a portion of the human bone, and back through a different duct 26. In an embodiment, the cable 10 may be threaded through the connector 20 exiting from the rear face 33 of the connector body 24. After encircling a bone member the cable 10 may reenter the connector body 24 from the front face 35. In another embodiment, depicted in Figure 8, the cable 10 may be threaded through the connector 20 exiting from the rear face 33 of the i 25 connector body 24. After encircling a bone member the cable 10 may reenter the connector body 24 from the rear face 33, forming a loop around the bone member. The ends of the cable 10 may extend out from the connector body 24. The ends may be in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to each other.

In another embodiment, the cable 10 may include tip 16, as depicted in Figure 1. Referring again to Figure 7, the tip 16 is preferably of a diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of a duct 26. The tip 16 preferably inhibits the cable 10 from passing completely through the duct 26. The cable 10 may be threaded through the connector 20, exiting from the rear face 33 of the connector body 24. The cable 10 is preferably threaded through the connector body 24 until the tip 16 is disposed against the front face 34 of the connector body 24. After encircling a bone member, the cable 10 may reenter the connector body 24 from the front face In another embodiment, the cable 10 may reenter the connector body 24 from the rear face 33 of the connector body. As the cable 10 is tensioned, the tip 16 may be disposed against the front face 35 of the connector body 24. The tip 16 may remain disposed against the face of the connector body 24 until the tension of the cable 10 is released.

In an alternate embodiment, (referring to Figure 13) the tip 16 is preferably of a diameter that is substantially larger than the diameter of an opening 44 of pin 22. The tip 16 preferably inhibits the cable from passing completely through the opening 44. The cable 10 is preferably threaded through the opening 44 until the tip 16 is disposed against the lower portion 48 of the opening. After encircling a human bone member, the cable 10 may be passed into the connector body 24 through one of the ducts 26. The pin 22 is preferably oriented to allow this passage of the cable 10 through one of the ducts 26. As the cable 10 is tensioned, the tip 16 may be disposed against lower portion 48 of the opening 44. The tip 16 may remain disposed against the lower portion 48 of the opening 44 until the tension of the cable 10 is released.

A tensioner 50 may be used to increase the tension on a cable 10 after it has been encircled around a human bone member. The preferred embodiment of the tensioner 50 is illustrated in Figure 14. The tensioner 50 may be prepared to receive the connector 20 by positioning the shaft 58 such that the tip 80 is positioned proximate to the front of the bushing 60. The shaft 58 may be positionable within the body 52 while the lock tab 62 is in a forward position. The lock tab 62 may be moved into the forward position by applying pressure to the rear face of the lock tab 62. Pressure on the lock tab 62 may be released allowing the lock tab to move away from the tensioner body 52. In this released position the lock tab 62 may prevent the rearward movement of the 15 shaft 58.

After the cable 10 is looped around a human bone member and through the connector 20, the *connector may be engaged by the tip 80 of the tensioner 50. The connector 20 is engaged by the tip 80 such that the front and rear faces of the connector are aligned with the indentations 78 (see Figure 19). The top of the connector 20 may be substantially positioned within the tip 80. The pin 22 may be mounted within the 20 connector body 24, and the connector body may be engaged by the tip A cable end is preferably positioned along the indentations 78 of the tip 80. The cable end is preferably clamped to the tensioner 50 by the cable clamp 68. The clamping portion 110 of the cable clamp 68 i may be disposed against the side of the bushing cover 66 while in the resting position. When pressed with sufficient force the lever 76 may pivot around the arm pin 72 such that the clamping portion 110 is no longer in 25 contact with the bushing cover 66. The cable 10 may be passed under the lever 76 while the clamping portion 110 is raised. Removal of the force being applied to the lever 76 preferably causes the clamping portion 110 to move toward the bushing cover 66. As a result, the clamping portion 110 may become pressed against the cable, thereby securing it in place against the bushing cover 66. In an embodiment, one end of the cable 10 is preferably secured to the bushing cover 66, using the cable clamps 68. In another embodiment, both ends of the cable 10 are preferably secured to the bushing cover 66.

Pressure may then be applied to the arm 54 of the tensioner 50 to pivot the arm around the arm pin 72 such that the arm moves in a direction toward the body 52 of the tensioner 50. Movement of the arm 54 toward the body 52 may be accompanied by movement of the shaft 58 away from the body 52. The angle to which the arm 54 is pivoted may determine the distance the shaft 58 extends from the body 52. When the pressure on the arm 54 is released, the arm preferably moves away from the body 52. Movement of the arm 54 away from the body 52 preferably does not effect the position of the shaft 58. With the cable 10 secured to the tensioner movement of the shaft 58 away from the body 52 preferably pulls the cable 10 through the connector 20 in a direction away from the connector. As a result, the tension on the cable 10 preferably increases. The arm 54 may be repeatedly pressured and released as many times as necessary to achieve the desired tension.

In one embodliment, a pin 22 may be inserted into the connector body 24, after the cable 10 has been tensioned, to secure the cable within the connector 20. The driver 56 may be used to insert the pin 22 into the connector body 24. In an alternate embodiment, the pin 22 may be placed in the connector body 24 prior to tensioning the cable 10. The pin 22 may be positioned within the tip 80. The driver 56 may be inserted through the center of the shaft 58 until it engages the pin 22. The end of the driver 56 is preferably shaped to fit within the opening 44 of the pin 22. The rotation of the driver 56 may be accompanied by rotation of the pin 22 while the driver is inserted within the opening 44. The pin 22 is preferably oriented such that the cable 10 may pass through one of the ducts 26. Rotation of the pin 22 may alter the orientation of the pin such that the pin secures a portion of the cable 10 within the connector body 24. The pin 22 is preferably rotated 900 into a securing orientation. Rotation of the pin 22 is preferably performed after the cable 10 has been tensioned. In this manner, the driver 56 may rotate the pin 22 to secure a portion of the cable 10 within the connector 20 without *removing the connector from the tip After securing the cable 10 within the connector 20 the tensioner 50 may be disengaged from the 15 connector. The cable 10 may be removed from the cable clamp 68 before disengaging the tensioner 50. To remove the cable 10, pressure may be applied to the lever 76, causing the lever to lift from the bushing cover 66. As a result, the securing force exerted by the clamping portion 110 is removed, allowing the cable 10 to be removed from under the clamping portion. After removal of the cable 10 from the cable clamps 68, the connector 20 may then be removed from the tip 80 of the tensioner In an embodliment, the cable 10 may need to be retensioned after the connector 20 has been removed from the tensioner 50. In this situation, the connector 20 may be reinserted into the tip 80 of the tensioner The cable 10 may be secured against the tensioner 50 with the cable clamp 68 of the tensioner 50. The driver 56 may be inserted into the opening 44 of the pin 22. Under these circumstances the pin 22 may be rotated by the driver 56 to an orientation which allows movement of the cable 10 through the connector body 24. The cable 10 may be retensioned by operation of the tensioner arm 54. When the desired tension is achieved, the cable 10 may be secured by the rotation of the pin 22 within the connector Further Improvements Referring back to Figures 10 and 11, the cable 10 may be secured within the connector when the sides of the pin 22 exert a force against the cable forcing the cable against the sides of the duct 11. The grooves 42 on the lower portion of the pin (shown in Figure 10) are preferably oriented perpendicular to the cable in this locked position. This force may inhibit movement of the cable 10 through the connector. During typical usage force may be exerted on the cable causing the cable to be pulled in a direction away from the connector. This force may cause the pin to rotate to a position where the grooves are parallel to the cable, thus allowing movement of the cable through the connector body. This rotation is typically inhibited by the upper portion of the pin 22 contacting the arms 32 of the connector. This contact inhibits rotation of the pin, and thus the tension of the system is maintained. Under conditions of extreme tension the resistance to rotation imparted by the 17 arms 32 on the upper portion of the pin 22 may be insufficient to prevent rotation of the pin and loosening of the cable. It is therefore desirable that a system be devised which will prevent rotation of the pin during extreme tension.

In one embodiment, a protrusion may be built onto the upper portion of a pin. The protrusion is preferably configured to interact with a locking portion built onto the connector body such that the protrusion and the locking portion together inhibit rotation of the pin. An embodiment of such a system is depicted in a perspective view in Figure 24a. The system includes a connector body 200 and a pin 204. The connector body preferably includes a locking portion 207 made up of at least one projection. The locking portion 207 preferably extends along the side of the connector body 200. The projection preferably includes an opening for receiving the protrusion 211 formed on the upper portion of the pin 204. The opening may be a hole formed through a portion of the projection. Preferably, the opening may be a slot or indentation formed in the projection (as shown in Fig. 24a).

:In another embodiment, depicted in Figure 24b, the locking portion preferably includes two projections 206 and 208 that together define opening 210. The locking portion preferably extends from the connector body T5 to a height from about V' the height of the upper portion 202 of the pin 204 to about the height of the upper portion of the pin. Preferably, the height of projections 206 and 208 is approximately equal to the height of the upper portion 202 ofthe pin.

The pin 204 preferably includes at least one protrusion 211 extending from the upper portion 202 of the pin. The protrusion preferably includes a rounded side 212 and a substantially flat side 214. In Figure 24b, the protrusion is depicted near the top of the upper portion 202 of the pin 204, however, it should be understood that the protrusion may be located anywhere between the bottom and the top of the upper portion of the pin. The width of the protrusion may vary from about 'A of the height of the upper portion of the pin to about the height of the upper portion of the pin.

Figures 25a depicts a top view of a connector with a pin which includes a protrusion 211 for inhibiting rotation of the pin. The protrusion 211 is preferably oriented away from the locking portion 207 when the pin is in an unlocked position. When the pin is in an unlocked position the cable 205 may be free to move through the connector 200. In Figure 25b the pin has been rotated in a counter-clockwise direction from the position depicted in Figure 25a such that the pin is in a locking position. When the pin is in a locking position the cable 205 is preferably inhibited from moving through the connector 200. In the locked position the pin is positioned such that the protrusion 211 now lies within the opening formed by projections 206 and 208. With the protrusion 211 oriented within the opening of the locking portion, rotation of the pin in a clockwise direction may be inhibited. The flat edge 214 of the protrusion 211 preferably engages the flat edge of the projection 206 to inhibit rotation of the pin in a clockwise direction.

While rotation of the pin in a clockwise direction is substantially inhibited, the pin may be turned in a counterclockwise direction. When rotated in a counterclockwise direction, the rounded edge 212 of the protrusion 211 contacts the projection 208 of the locking portion to slightly inhibit the rotation of the pin. Since the edge 212 of the protrusion contacting the projection 208 is rounded, only a small portion of the rounded edge 212 contacts the projection. By applying sufficient force the rounded edge 212 may cause the projection 208 to deflect slightly outward, providing sufficient space for the protrusion to be rotated past the projection 208 and away from the locking portion. In this manner the pin may be moved into a unlocked position.

During a typical procedure, the cable 205 is preferably formed into a loop and tensioned prior to securing the cable within the connector body 200. After the cable 205 is tensioned the pin is positioned within the internal cavity such that the lower portion of the pin compresses the cable against the wall of the duct, as depicted in Figure 11. Preferably, the pin is rotated from an unlocked position (shown in Figure 25a) to a locked position (shown in Figure 25b) to secure the cable within the connector. When a tensioned cable is secured in this manner, the cable may exert a force in a direction 222 away from the connector, as depicted in Figure 25b. This force, when exerted on the pin, may rotate the pin in a clockwise direction. If unchecked, the pin may rotate to an unlocked position a position in which the cable is no longer secured within the connector). The presence of protrusion 211 upon the pin preferably inhibits this rotation. By inhibiting this rotation the protrusion 211 inhibits loosening of cable 205.

In one embodiment, the pin may have a pair of grooves formed in a lower portion of the pin as has been previously described. The lower portion of the pin preferably fits into the internal cavity. The grooves are 15 preferably positioned such that the cable may be passed through the ducts in the connector when the grooves are aligned with the ducts (see Figure 10). When the pin is rotated by 90 degrees, the ungrooved portion of the pin preferably engages the cable, thus inhibiting movement of the cable (see Figure 11). Preferably, the protrusion 211 on the upper portion of the pin is oriented perpendicular to the grooves. Referring to Figures 25a and the grooves of the pin (not shown) are preferably located along sides 224 and 226 of the pin. When the pin is 20 positioned in an unlocked position, as depicted in Figure 24a, the grooves preferably run parallel to the cable 205 along sides 224 and 226 of the pin. This orientation may allow the cable to move freely through the connector via ducts formed in the connector. A portion of cable 205 may extend into the grooves. The protrusion 211 is preferably positioned on a side perpendicular to sides 224 and 226, such as side 228. In the unlocked position, the pin may be oriented in the connector such that the protrusion 211 extends from the pin in 25 a direction parallel to a portion of the cable, as depicted in Figure 24a.

When the cable is to be secured within the connector, the pin may be rotated in a counterclockwise direction. This movement causes the sides 224 and 226 of the pin, and therefore the grooves, to preferably move into a perpendicular orientation to the cable 205. The cable preferably comes into contact with the ungrooved portion of the lower section of the pin and is compressed against the ducts inside the connector. This compressive force may secure the cable within the connector. When the pin is positioned in this locking orientation, the protrusion 211 moves into the opening defined by projections 206 and 208. Thus, the action of securing the cable by rotating the pin preferably moves the protrusion into a position such that rotation in a direction opposite to the direction for securing the cable a clockwise direction) is inhibited.

Projection 208 of the locking portion is preferably positioned to prevent over turning of the pin. Since a significant amount of force needs to be applied to rotate the pin, it is desired that a stop be present to prevent overturning the pin. Overturning of the pin may lead to realignment of the grooves with the ducts, allowing the cable to become free to move through the connector. The projection 208 of the locking portion preferably prevents this overturning of the pin. The projection 208 provides a stop which the curved edge 212 of the 19 protrusion 211 preferably contacts during rotation of the pin, thus inhibiting further rotation of the pin in a counterclockwise direction. The use of a curved face on the protrusion may allow further counterclockwise rotation if sufficient additional rotational force is applied to the pin.

In another embodiment, a connector including two locking portions may be used in conjunction with a pin including two protrusions, as depicted in Figures 26a and 26b. The first locking portion 207 of the connector is preferably oriented opposite a second locking portion 240, as depicted in Figures 26a and 26b. The first locking portion preferably includes two projections 206 and 208 which define an opening 207. The second locking portion preferably includes two projections 242 and 244 which define an opening 246. The pin 204 preferably includes two protrusions 211 and 250 oriented opposite to each other. Each protrusion preferably includes a rounded side and a flat side.

The pin preferably has a pair of grooves formed in a lower portion of the pin as has been previously described. The grooves of the pin are preferably located along sides 224 and 226 of the pin. When the pin is positioned in an unlocked position (shown in Figure 26a), the grooves run parallel to the cable 205 along sides 224 and 226. This orientation may allow the cable 205 to move freely through the connector. In the unlocked 5 position the protrusions are preferably oriented away from locking portions 207 and 240. The protrusions 211 and 250 are preferably positioned on sides perpendicular to sides 224 and 226.

When the cable is to be secured within the connector, the pin may be rotated in a counterclockwise direction. This movement causes the sides 224 and 226 of the pin, and therefore the grooves, to preferably move into a perpendicular orientation to the cable 205. The cable preferably comes into contact with the ungrooved portion of the lower section of the pin and is compressed against the ducts inside the connector. This compressive force may secure the cable within the connector. When the pin is positioned in this locking orientation the protrusions 211 and 250 move into the openings of locking portions 207 and 240. Thus, the action of securing the cable by rotating the pin preferably moves the protrusions into a position such that rotation in a direction opposite to the direction for securing the cable a clockwise direction) is inhibited.

25 The use of two projections and two locking portions has the advantage that the pin may be secured in a locked position whenever the cable is secured within the connector body. Additionally, the two projections may provide increased resistance to rotation of the pin in a clockwise direction when the pin is in a locked position.

Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the general manner of carrying out the invention. It is to be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein are to be taken as the presently preferred embodiments. Elements and materials may be substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes may be reversed, and certain features of the invention may be utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of the invention. Changes may be made in the elements described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims Where the terms "comprise", "comprises", "comprised" or "comprising" are used in this specification, they are to be interpreted as specifying the presence of the stated features, integers, steps or components referred to, but not to preclude the presence or addition of one or more other feature, integer, step, component or group thereof.

This application is a divisional of the present applicant's pending Australian Patent Application No. 83856/98, and the whole contents thereof are included hereinto by reference.

29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,20

Claims

1. A bone fixation system, comprising: a body; the body comprising an internal cavity, a duct, and a projection the duct communicating with the internal cavity, the projection comprising an opening; a cable configured to pass through the duct to form a loop for engaging a portion of a bone during use,, wherein a pot-non of the cable extends into the internal cavity during use; and a pin comprising a protrusion: wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing the portion of the cable with respect to the body, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position during use such that the cable is S: 10 moveable relative to the body during use; and, wherein the pin is configured to rotate oi in a first direction into the first position, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction while allowing further rotation in the first direction during 15 use.

2. The system of Claim 1, wherein the duct passes transversally through the body communicating with the internal cavity, and, wherein the duct is in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the internal cavity.

3. The system of Claim 1, wherein the internal cavity comprises an 20 aperture positioned between the duct and the internal cavity,, wherein the aperture is positioned such that the portion of the cable may extend through the aperture into the internal cavity during use.

4. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove having a width substantially greater than a diameter of the cable, the groove being positioned on the pin to allow the cable to freely move past the pin during use.

The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being adapted to align with the duct during use, and, wherein the groove is configured to allow the cable to move through the duct during use.

6. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being oriented substantially perpendicular to the duct when the pin is in the first position during use. 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,21

7. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is configured to compress the cable against the duct such that the cable is secured within the body during use.

8. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter substantially greater than a diameter of the lower portion, and, wherein the protrusion is formed on the upper portion.

9. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion and, wherein the lower portion comprises a diameter that is substantially less than a diameter of the internal cavity.

10. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter that is substantially greater than a diameter of the internal cavity.

11. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is secured within the internal cavity. S 15

12. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position to secure the portion of the cable with respect to the body during use.

13. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position to permit movement of the portion of the cable 20 through the body during use.

14. The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

The system of Claim 1, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction into the first position and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

16. The system of Claim 1, wherein the bone is a human spinal vertebra.

17. A bone fixation system, comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a duct, a first projection and a second projection, the duct communicating with 22 2 9 /0 9 /00gcl 1595.spe,22 the internal cavity, the first projection and the second projection together defining an opening, wherein the internal cavity passes through the body; a cable configured to pass through the duct to form a loop for engaging a portion of a bone during use,, wherein a portion of the cable extends into the internal cavity during use; and a pin comprising an upper portion, the upper portion comprising a protrusion, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing a portion of a cable with respect to the body and, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a second position such that the cable is moveable relative to the body during use; and, wherein the protrusion is configured to fit within :10 the opening when the pin is in the first position such that rotation of' the pin is oeooo substantially hindered during use. te

18. The system of Claim 17, wherein the duct passes transversally through the body, communicating with the internal cavity, and, wherein the duct is in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the internal cavity.

19. The system of Claim 17, wherein the internal cavity comprises an aperture positioned between the duct and the internal cavity,, wherein the aperture is positioned such that the portion of the cable may extend through the aperture into the internal cavity during use.

The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the .i 20 groove having a width substantially greater than a diameter of the cable, the groove being positioned on the pin to allow the cable to freely move past the pin during use.

21. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being configured to align with the duct during use, and, wherein the groove is configured to allow the cable to move through the duct during use.

22. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being oriented substantially perpendicular to the duct when the pin is in the first position during use.

23. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a lower portion, the lower portion being configured to compress the cable against the duct such that the cable is secured within the body during use.

24. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a lower 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,23 portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter substantially greater than a diameter of the lower portion.

The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin further comprises a lower portion, and, wherein the lower portion comprises a diameter that is substantially less than a diameter of the internal cavity.

26. The system of Claim 17, wherein the upper portion of the pin comprises a diameter that is substantially greater than a diameter of the internal cavity.

27. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin is secured within the internal cavity. S: 10

28. The system of Claim 17, wherein the first projection and the second projection are positioned a predetermined distance from each other on a side of the body.

29. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position to secure the cable with respect to the body during .15 use.

The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position to permit movement of a portion of the cable through the body during use.

31. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first 20 direction, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a '0000" direction opposite the first direction.

32. The system of Claim 17, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction into the first position, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

33. The system of Claim 17, wherein the internal cavity is in a substantially perpendicular orientation to the duct.

34. The system of Claim 17, wherein the bone is a human spinal vertebra.

35. A bone fixation system, comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a duct, a first projection and a second projection, the first projection comprising 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,24 a first opening, the second projection comprising a second opening, the duct configured to communicate with the internal cavity,, wherein the first projection and the second projection are positioned on opposing sides of the body; a cable configured to pass through the duct to form a loop for engaging a portion of a bone during use,, wherein a portion of the cable extends into the internal cavity during use; and a pin comprising an upper portion, the upper portion comprising a first protrusion and a second protrusion; and, wherein the pin is rotatable into a first position for securing the cable with respect to the body, and, wherein the pin is rotatable into a second position such that the cable is moveable relative to the body during use; and, wherein the first protrusion is configured to engage the first opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the second protrusion is configured to engage the second opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of S::g the first and second protrusions with the first and second openings substantially hinders rotation of the pin during use. 15

36. The system of Claim 35, wherein the duct passes transversally through the body, communicating with the internal cavity, and, wherein the duct is in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the internal cavity.

37. The system of Claim 35, wherein the internal cavity comprises an aperture positioned between the duct and the internal cavity,, wherein the aperture is 20 positioned such that the portion of the cable may extend through the aperture into the internal cavity during use.

38. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove having a width substantially greater than a diameter of the cable, the groove being positioned on the pin to allow the cable to freely move past the pin during use.

39. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being positioned on the pin to align with the duct during use, and, wherein the groove allows the cable to move through the body during use.

The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove being oriented substantially perpendicular to the duct when the pin is in the first position during use.

41. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin further comprises a lower 29/09/00gcl 15 9 5 .spc, 2 portion, the lower portion being configured to compress the cable against the duct such that the cable is secured within the body during use.

42. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin further comprises a lower portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter substantially greater than a diameter of the lower portion.

43. The system of Claim .35, wherein the pin is secured within the internal cavity.

44. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position to permit movement of the cable through the body 10 during use.

45. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position to secure the cable with respect to the body during use.

46. The system of Claim 35, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first 15 direction, and, wherein the first and second protrusions are configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

47. The system of Claim 35, wherein the bone is a human spinal vertebra.

48. A bone fixation device, comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a duct, and a projection, the duct communicating with the internal cavity, the 20 projection comprising an opening, and a pin comprising a protrusion and a groove, wherein the pin is configured to fit within the cavity, and, wherein the groove and the duct are alignable to receive a cable during use, and, wherein the pin is positionable within the cavity during use in a first position such that the groove is substantially aligned with the duct, and, wherein the pin is positionable within the cavity in a second position such that the groove is substantially perpendicular to the duct; and, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction into the first position and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction while allowing further rotation in the first direction during use.

49. The device of Claim 48, wherein the duct passes transversally through 29 /0 9 /00gcl I 595.spe,26 the body, communicating with the internal cavity, and, wherein the duct is in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the internal cavity.

The device of Claim 48, wherein an aperture is positioned between the duct and the internal cavity.

51. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter substantially greater than a diameter of the lower portion, and, wherein the protrusion is formed on the upper portion.

52. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and, wherein the lower portion comprises a diameter that is substantially less than a diameter of the internal cavity.

53. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter that is substantially greater than a diameter of the internal cavity.

54. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin is secured within the internal cavity.

The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position during use.

56. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin is configured to rotate from the :20 first position to the second position during use. *o

57. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

58. The device of Claim 48, wherein the pin is configured to rotate in a first direction into the first position, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of' the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

59. The device of Claim 48, wherein the bone is a human spinal vertebra.

60. A method of surgically implanting a surgical cable system comprising: passing a cable through a connector, around a human bone element, and back 27 29/09/00gcl 1595.spc27 through the connector to form a loop, the connector comprising: a body, the body comprising an internal cavity, a duct, and a projection, the duct communicating with the internal cavity, the projection comprising an opening; a cable configured to pass through the duct to form a loop for engaging a portion of a bone during use,, wherein a portion of the cable extends into the internal cavity during use; and a pin comprising a protrusion;, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing the portion of the cable with respect to the body, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position during use such that the cable is moveable relative to the body during use; and, wherein the pin is configured to rotate 10 in a first direction into the first position, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to engage the opening when the pin is in the first position, and, wherein the engagement of the protrusion with the opening substantially inhibits rotation of the pin in a direction :o opposite the first direction while allowing further rotation in the first direction during use; tensioning the cable using a tensioner; and positioning a pin within the connector 15 body, wherein the pin engages the cable to secure the cable within the connector body, thereby fixing a size of the loop.

61. The method of Claim 60, wherein the loop encircles at least two Sege vertebrae of the human spine. go*%

62. The method of Claim 60, wherein passing the cable around a human °o 20 bone element further comprises passing the loop through a portion of the bone.

63. The method of Claim 60, wherein the loop encircles a spinal fixation device and a vertebra of the human spine.

64. The method of Claim 60, wherein the connector further comprises a first duct and a second duct, and, wherein passing the cable through the connector comprises passing the cable through a first face, into the first duct, and out through a second face of the body, and, wherein passing the cable back through the connector body comprises passing the cable through the first face, into the second duct, and out through the second face.

The method of Claim 60, wherein the loop is formed such that both ends of the cable extend out from the connector body.

66. The method of Claim 60, wherein the loop is formed such that both ends 28 29/09/00gc I 595.spc28 of the cable extend out from the connector body, and, wherein both ends of the cable are secured to the tensioner prior to the tensioning the cable.

67. The method of Claim 60, wherein the pin is positioned within the connector prior to passing the cable through the connector.

68. The method of Claim 60 further comprising passing the cable through the pin prior to passing the cable around the human bone element.

69. The method of Claim 60 further comprising positioning the connector within a tip of the tensioner prior to tensioning the cable.

The method of Claim 60 further comprising securing the cable to the 10 tensioner prior to tensioning the cable.

71. The method of Claim 60 further comprising inserting a driver into the pin prior to positioning the pin.

72. The method of Claim 60, wherein positioning the pin comprises rotating the pin. 15

73. The method of Claim 60, wherein positioning the pin comprises inserting the pin into the connector body.

74. The method of Claim 60 further comprising: varying the position of the o o pin within the connector to permit the cable to move within the connector body; retensioning the cable with the tensioner; and repositioning the pin within the 20 connector body to secure the cable within the connector body. o°:

75. The method of Claim 74, wherein varying the position of the pin comprises rotating the pin.

76. The method of Claim 74, wherein varying the position of the pin comprises removing the pin from the connector body.

77. The method of Claim 74, wherein repositioning the pin comprises rotating the pin.

78. The method of Claim 74, wherein repositioning the pin comprises inserting the pin into the connector body.

79. The method of Claim 60, wherein positioning the pin comprises rotating the pin in a first direction such that the protrusion engages the locking portion, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a direction opposite 29 29/09/00gc I 1595.spc29 the first direction.

The method of Claim 74, wherein varying the position of the pin comprises rotating the pin in a first direction such that the protrusions disengage the locking portion.

81. The method of Claim 74, wherein repositioning the pin comprises rotating the pin in a first direction such that the protrusion engages the locking portion, and, wherein the protrusion is configured to inhibit rotation of the pin in a direction opposite the first direction.

82. A connector comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity; a cable 10 adapted to pass through the body to form a loop for engaging a portion of a human bone during use; and a pin positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body, thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is rotatable to a second position, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be 15 altered during use.

83. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable further comprises an elongated and substantially flexible main portion the main portion comprising a stranded metal wire. .ooe.i

84. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable further comprises a leader S:;i 20 portion adapted to guide the cable around a portion of the human bone.

The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable furtier comprises a leader portion, the leader portion comprising a non-stranded wire, and, wherein the leader portion is adapted to guide the cable around a portion of the human bone.

86. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable further comprises a tip located at an end of the cable, and, wherein the tip comprises a diameter that is larger than a diameter of the cable.

87. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable further comprises a tip located at an end of the cable, and, wherein the tip comprises a diameter that is larger than a portion of the internal cavity.

88. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the body further comprises a first arm extending from a first side of the body and a second arm extending from a 29/0 9 /00gcl 1595.spe,30 second side of the body, and, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side such that the body is substantially U-shaped.

89. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the body further comprises a first arm extending from a first side of the body, and a second arm extending from a second side of the body, and, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side.

The connector of Claim 1, wherein the body further comprises a first arm and a second arm, and, wherein the pin is configured to rotate within the internal cavity, and, wherein the arms are positioned such that rotation of the pin within the 10 internal cavity is hindered during use. ifl

91. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the body further comprises a first arm and a second arm, and, wherein the internal cavity passes longitudinally through the entire body between the first arm and the second arm.

92. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin further comprises an upper 15 portion and a lower portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter .substantially greater than a diameter of the lower portion.

93. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin further comprises a lower portion, and, wherein the lower portion comprises a diameter that is substantially less o:oo• than a diameter of the internal cavity. 20

94. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion, and, wherein the upper portion comprises a diameter that is substantially greater than a diameter of the internal cavity.

The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion, the upper portion comprising at least two substantially planar edges positioned a spaced distance apart on opposing sides of the pin, and, wherein the upper portion of the pin is sized to fit within the body.

96. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin further comprises an upper portion, the upper portion comprising at least two substantially planar edges positioned a spaced distance apart on opposing sides of the pin, and, wherein the body comprises a first arm and a second arm extending from opposite sides of the body, and, wherein the upper portion of the pin is sized to fit between first arm and 31 29/o9/00gc1 1595.spe,31 the second arm.

97. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the pin is adapted to be secured within the internal cavity.

98 The connector of Claim 1, wherein the pin is adapted to rotate from the second position to the first position to secure a portion of the cable with respect to the body during use.

99. A connector comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a first duct, and a second duct,, wherein at least one duct is adapted to communicate with the internal cavity; a cable adapted to pass through the body to form a loop for 10 engaging a portion of a human bone during use; and a pin comprising an opening, the pin being positionable within the internal cavity,, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing a portion of the cable with o• S•respect to the body, thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is rotatable to a second position, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use.

100. The connector of Claim 99, wherein a diameter of the cable is substantially less than a width of the ducts. 9

101. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable further comprises a tip oeole located at an end of the cable, and, wherein the tip comprises a diameter that is 20 substantially larger than a width of the ducts.

102. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable further comprises a tip located at an end of the cable, and, wherein the tip comprises a diameter that is substantially larger than a diameter of a lower portion of the opening.

103. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the body further comprises a first arm and a second arm, and, wherein the internal cavity passes longitudinally through the entire body between the first arm and the second arm, and, wherein the internal cavity is in a substantially perpendicular orientation to the ducts.

104. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the ducts pass transversally through the body, communicating with the internal cavity, and, wherein the ducts are in a substantially perpendicular orientation relative to the internal cavity.

105. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the internal cavity comprises at 29/09/00gcl i 595.spe,32 least one aperture positioned between one of the ducts and the internal cavity, and, wherein the cable passes through one of the ducts, and, wherein a portion of the cable extends through the aperture into the internal cavity during use.

106. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a first groove and a second groove, the first and second grooves being positioned on opposing sides of a lower portion of the pin.

107. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a groove, the groove having a width substantially greater than a diameter of the cable, the groove being adapted to allow the cable to freely move past the pin during use. 10

108. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a first I6 groove and a second groove, the grooves being adapted to reside in a plane defined 0% 0 by the ducts during use.

109. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a first groove and a second groove, the grooves being adapted to align with a first duct and .15 a second duct during use, and, wherein the grooves, in alignment with the ducts, allow the cable to move through the body during use.

110. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a first groove and a second groove, the grooves being adapted to lie perpendicular to a first duct and a second duct during use, and, wherein the pin is configured to inhibit 20 movement of the cable through the body when the grooves are oriented perpendicular to the ducts.

111. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin further comprises a lower portion, the lower portion being adapted to compress the cable against one of the duets such that the cable is secured within the body.

112. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening extends longitudinally through the entire pin.

113. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, the upper portion comprising a diameter greater than the lower portion.

114. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening comprises an upper portion, the upper portion comprising a diameter which is substantially greater than a 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,33 diameter of the cable to permit the cable to move within the opening during use.

115. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening comprises an upper portion, the upper portion being shaped to receive a tip of the cable.

116. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening comprises an upper portion, the upper portion being shaped to couple with a device adapted to apply a torsional force to the pin.

117. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the opening comprises an upper portion, the upper portion being substantially hexagonal in shape.

118. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the pin is adapted to rotate from the 10 second position to the first position to secure a portion of the cable with respect to the body, while the cable resides within the ducts.

119. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable is adapted to pass through the opening and the duct to form a loop.

120. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable comprises a first portion and a second portion,, wherein the first portion of the cable is positionable within the first duct, and the second portion of the cable is positionable within the second duct, the second portion being positionable in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to the first portion during use.

121. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable comprises a first portion 20 and a second portion wherein the first portion is positionable within the first duct, and the second portion of the cable is positionable within the oplening, the second portion of the cable being in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to the first portion of the cable to form a loop during use.

122. A tensioner comprising: a body comprising an arm; a shaft adapted to engage a connector during use; and a driver adapted to secure a cable within the connector during use, such that the cable remains secured within the connector after the driver is disengaged from the connector during use;, wherein the arm is adapted to vary the tension of the cable as the position of the shaft is altered during use.

123. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a front opening extending through a front portion of the body, and, wherein the front opening is of a diameter that is substantially larger than a diameter of the shaft. 34 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,34

124. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a rear opening extending through a rear portion of the body, and, wherein the rear opening is of a diameter that is substantially larger than a diameter of the shaft, and, wherein the opening is adapted to restrict rotation of the shaft within the body.

125. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a front opening and a rear opening, the front opening extending through a front portion of the body, the rear opening extending through a rear portion of the body, and, wherein the shaft is positioned within the front opening and the rear opening.

126. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a front opening 10 and a rear opening, the front opening extending through a front portion of the body, the rear opening extending through a rear portion of the body, and, wherein the shaft extends through the front opening and the rear opening.

127. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a hollow section, the hollow section being adapted to hold the arm, and, wherein the arm is 15 adapted to pivot within the hollow section.

128. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a hollow section the hollow section being adapted to hold the arm, and to restrict movement of the arm. S9

129. The tensioner of Claim 122, further comprising a push tab in contact 20 with the arm and the shaft, the push tab being adapted to move the shaft through the body in a forward direction as the arm is moved within the body.

130. The tensioner of Claim 122, further comprising an arm spring communicating with the arm, and, wherein the arm spring is adapted to compress when the arm is moved during use.

131. The tensioner of Claim 122, further comprising an arm spring communicating with the arm, and, wherein the arm spring is adapted to return the arm to a starting position during use.

132. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a lock tab, the lock tab being adapted to inhibit movement of the shaft through the body during use.

133. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a lock tab, the lock tab being adapted to inhibit movement of the shaft during use, and, wherein the 29/09/00gcl 15 9 5 .sp, 3 lock tab is positionable along the shaft to allow movement of the shaft through the body during use.

134. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a lock spring and a lock tab, the lock spring being in contact with the lock tab, and, wherein the lock spring is adapted to move the lock tab such that the lock tab inhibits movement of the shaft through the body during use.

135. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the shaft further comprises an opening extending longitudinally through the shaft.

136. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the shaft further comprises a tip 10 located at an end of the shaft, the tip comprising a tip diameter that is substantially greater than a shaft diameter of the shaft. .:I

137. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the shaft further comprises a tip, the tip comprising an indentation extending longitudinally along an outside surface of the tip, and, wherein the indentation is adapted to contain the cable. 15

138. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the shaft further comprises a tip, the tip comprising a recessed opening, the recessed opening comprising a shape complimentary to the connector.

139. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the shaft further comprises a tip, S the tip comprising a first slot and a second slot, the first slot extending substantially S 20 across an end of the tip, the second slot extending substantially across the end of the tip in a substantially perpendicular orientation to the first slot, ahd, wherein the slots form a recessed opening adapted to contain the connector.

140. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body further comprises a bushing, the bushing being adapted to communicate with the body and the shaft, and, wherein the bushing is adapted to minimize the lateral movement of the shaft within the body.

141. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body further comprises a bushing cover, the bushing cover comprising a cable clamp, and, wherein the bushing cover is adapted to rotate about the body such that the cable clamp may be positionable with respect to the body.

142. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the body comprises a cable clamp, 36 29/09/00gcll 1595.spe,36 and, wherein the cable clamp is adapted to inhibit movement of a portion of the cable with respect to the body.

143. The tensioner of Claim 122. further comprising a cable clamp adapted to rotate to a securing position for inhibiting movement of the cable with respect to the body during use, and, wherein the cable is adapted to rotate to a releasing position for allowing the cable to move with respect to the body during use.

144. The tensioner of Claim 122, further comprising a cable clamp spring communicating with a cable clamp, and, wherein the cable clamp spring is adapted to fix the cable clamp in a securing position.

145. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the driver further comprises an end, the end being adapted to vary the position of a pin with respect to the connector during use.

146. The tensioner of Claim 122,, wherein the driver further comprises an end, the end being substantially hexagonal shaped.

147. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the driver is adapted to position a pin within the connector in an orientation such that the pin engages a portion of the cable to secure the cable with respect to the connector during use.

148. The tensioner of Claim 122, wherein the driver is adapted to position a °°me° pin within the connector in an orientation such that a portion of the cable is moveable 20 within the connector during use.

A method of surgically implanting a surgical cable system comprising: passing a cable through a connector around a human bone element, and back through the connector to form a loop, the connector comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a first arm and a second arm, the first arm extending from a first side of the body, the second arm extending from a second side of the body, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side; and a pin positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first orientation for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position, subsequent to securing the cable with respect to the body, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use; tensioning the cable with a tensioner; and positioning 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,3 7 the pin within the connector body such that the pin engages the cable to secure the cable within the connector body,, wherein an upper portion of the pin is positioned between the first and second arms.

150. The method of Claim 149,, wherein the loop encircles at least two vertebrae of the human spine.

151. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop encircles a spinal fixation device and a vertebra of the human spine.

152. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of passing the cable through the connector body comprises passing the cable into a first face of the connector body and out through a second face of the body, and, wherein the step of passing the S:•i cable back through the connector body comprises passing the cable into the second face and out through the first face.

.°153. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of passing the cable through the connector body comprises passing the cable into a first face of the connector o- 15 body and out through a second face of the body, and, wherein the step of passing the cable back through the connector body comprises passing the cable into the first face and out through the second face.

154. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that both OOOO6 ends of the cable extend out from the connector body. 20

155. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that both ends of the cable extend out from the connector body, and, wherein both ends of the cable are secured to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning.

156. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is secured by the connector body and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body.

157. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that a first. end of the cable is secured by the connector body, and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body, and, wherein the second end of the cable is secured to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning.

158. The method of Claim 149, wherein the pin is positioned within the connector body prior to the step of passing the cable through the connector body. 38 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,38

159. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is contained by a pin positioned within the connector body, and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body.

160. The method of Claim 149, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is contained by the pin positioned within the connector body, and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body, and further comprising securing the second end of the cable to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning.

161. The method of Claim 149 further comprising passing the cable through the pin prior to passing the cable around the human bone element.

"162. The method of Claim 149 further comprising positioning the connector body within a tip of the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

163. The method of Claim 149 further comprising securing the cable to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning the cable. 15

164. The method of Claim 149 further comprising securing a portion of the cable underneath a cable clamp lever prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

165. The method of Claim 149 further comprising securing a first end of the cable with a first cable clamp, and further comprising securing a second end of the cable with a second cable clamp, and, wherein both ends of the cable are secured o 20 prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

166. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of tensioning comprises the tensioner concurrently holding the connector body in place and pulling the cable through the connector body until the tension of the cable reaches a predetermined amount.

167. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of tensioning comprises moving a shaft of the tensioner in a direction opposite to a direction of movement of the cable through the connector body.

168. The method of Claim 149 further comprising inserting a driver into the pin prior to the step of positioning the pin.

169. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of positioning the pin comprises rotating the pin. 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,39

170. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of positioning the pin comprises inserting the pin into the connector body.

171. The method of Claim 149, wherein the step of positioning the pin comprises rotating a driver in a first direction, the driver interacting with the pin such that the pin concurrently rotates in the first direction.

172. The method of Claim 149 further comprising disengaging the tensioner from the connector body after the step of positioning the pin.

173. The method of Claim 149 further comprising removing the cable from a cable clamp after the step of positioning the pin.

174. A method of surgically implanting a surgical cable system comprising: passing cable through a connector, around a human bone, and back through the S.:i connector to form a loop, the connector comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a first arm and a second arm, the first arm extending from a first side of the body, the second arm extending from a second side of the body,, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side; and a pin positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first orientation for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position, subsequent to securing the cable with respect to o°000 the body, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the 20 loop to be altered during use; tensioning the cable with a tensioner; positioning the pin within the connector body such that the pin engages the cable to secure the cable within the connector body,, wherein an upper portion of the pin is positioned between the first and second arms; varying the position of the pin within the connector body to permit the cable to move within the connector body; retensioning the cable with the tensioner; and repositioning the pin within the connector body to secure the cable within the connector body.

175. The method of Claim 174 further comprising inserting the driver into the pin prior to the step of varying the pin.

176. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of varying the position of the pin comprises rotating the pin.

177. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of varying the position of the 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,40 pin comprises removing the pin from the connector body.

178. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of varying the position of the pin comprises rotating a driver in a first direction, the driver interacting with the pin such that the pin concurrently rotates in the first direction.

179. The method of Claim 174 further comprising inserting the driver into the pin prior to the step of repositioning the pin.

180. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of repositioning the pin comprises rotating the pin.

181. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of repositioning the pin 10 comprises inserting the pin into the connector body.

182. The method of Claim 174, wherein the step of repositioning the pin comprises rotating a driver in a first direction, the driver interacting with the pin such 0 l 6 that the pin concurrently rotates in the first direction.

183. The method of Claim 174 further comprising positioning the connector 15 body within a tip of tile tensioner prior to the step of retensioning the cable.

184. The method of Claim 174 further comprising securing the cable to the tensioner prior to the step of retensioning the cable.

185. The method of Claim 174 further comprising securing a portion of he ooo• 0 cable underneath a cable clamp lever prior to the step of retensioning the cable. 20

186. The method of Claim 174 further comprising securing a first end of the 000 cable with a first cable clamp, and further comprising securing a second end of the cable with a second cable clamp, and, wherein both ends of the cable are secured prior to the step of retensioning the cable.

187. The method of Claim 174 further comprising disengaging the tensioner from the connector body after the step of repositioning the pin.

188. The method of Claim 174 further comprising removing the cable from a cable clamp after the step of repositioning the pin.

189. A surgical cable system comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a first arm and a second arm, the first arm extending from a first side of the body, the second arm extending from a second side of the body,, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side; a cable adapted to pass through the body to 29/09/00gc I 595.spe,41 form a loop for engaging a portion of a human bone during use; a pin positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first orientation for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position, subsequent to securing the cable with respect to the body, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use; and a tensioner adapted to vary the tension of the cable during use.

190. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a recessed opening, the recessed opening comprising a shape complementary to the connector. S:

191. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a S:i" recessed opening, the recessed opening adapted to contain a portion of the connector during use.

192. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a body, the body comprising a cable clamp, and, wherein the cable clamp is adapted to inhibit movement of a portion of the cable with respect to the body.

193. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a driver, the driver being adapted to vary the position of the pin with respect to the oo.ooi connector during use. 20

194. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a S* driver, the driver being adapted to position apin within the conriector in an orientation such that the pin engages a portion of the cable such that the cable is secured with respect to the connector during use.

195. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a driver, the driver being adapted to position the pin within the connector in an orientation such that the pin engages a portion of the cable to inhibit movement of the cable with respect to the connector during use.

196. The surgical cable system of 189, wherein the tensioner comprises a driver, the driver being adapted to rotate the pin within the body.

197. A method of using a connector comprising a connector body and a pin for surgically implanting a surgical cable system comprising: passing a cable through 29/09/00gc I 1595.spe,42 the connector body, around a human bone, and back through the connector body to form a loop, wherein the body comprises an internal cavity, a first arm and a second arm, the first arm extending from a first side of the body, the second arm extending from a second side of the body, wherein the second side is located opposite the first side; and, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first orientation for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body thereby fixing the size of the loop during use and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position, subsequent to securing the cable with respect to the body such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use; tensioning the cable; and positioning the pin within the connector body such that the pin engages the cable to secure the cable within the connector body,, wherein an upper portion of the pin is positioned between the first and second arms.

198. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of passing the cable through the connector body comprises passing the cable into a first face of the connector 15 body and out through a second face of the body, and, wherein the step of passing the •*oo cable back through the connector body comprises passing the cable into the second face and out through the first face.

199. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of passing the cable through the connector body comprises passing the cable into a first face of the connector 20 body and out through a second face of the body and, wherein the step of passing the cable back through the connector body comprises passing the cable into the first face and out through the second face.

200. The method of Claim 197, wherein the loop is formed such that both ends of the cable extend out from the connector body.

201. The method of Claim 197, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is secured by the connector body, and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body.

202. The method of Claim 197, wherein the pin is positioned within the connector body prior to the step of passing the cable through the connector body.

203. The method of Claim 197, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is contained by a pin positioned within the connector body, and, 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe,43 wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector body.

204. The method of Claim 197 further comprising passing the cable through the pin prior to passing the cable around the human bone element.

205. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of tensioning comprises pulling a first end of the cable and a second end of the cable through the connector body such that a diameter of the loop becomes substantially smaller.

206. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of tensioning comprises pulling a first end of the cable such that the cable is secured by the connector body and further comprising pulling second end of the cable through the connector body such that a diameter of the loop becomes substantially smaller. S

207. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of tensioning comprises pulling a first end of the cable such that the cable is secured by the pin, and further comprising pulling a second end of the cable through the connector body such that a diameter of the loop becomes substantially smaller.

208. The method of Claim 197 further comprising inserting a driver into the pin prior to the step of positioning the pin.

209. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of positioning the pin comprises rotating the pin.

210. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of positioning the pin comprises inserting the pin into the connector body.

211. The method of Claim 197, wherein the step of positioning the pin *o comprises rotating a driver in a first direction, the driver interacting with the pin such that the pin concurrently rotates in the first direction.

212. A method of using a tensioner for surgically implanting a surgical cable system, comprising: passing a cable around a human bone element and through a connector to form a loop; tensioning the cable with the tensioner such that a first direction of movement of a shaft of the tensioner is opposite to a second direction of movement of the cable through the connector; and securing the cable within the connector.

213. The method of Claim 212, wherein the loop is formed such that both ends of the cable extend out from the connector, and, wherein both ends of the cable 29/09/00gc 1l595.spe,44 are secured to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning.

214. The method of Claim 212, wherein the loop is formed such that a first end of the cable is secured by the connector, and, wherein a second end of the cable extends out from the connector, and, wherein the second end of the cable is secured to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning.

215. The method of Claim 212 further comprising positioning the connector within a tip of the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

216. The method of Claim 212 further comprising securing the cable to the tensioner prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

217. The method of Claim 212 further comprising securing a portion of the cable underneath a cable clamp lever prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

218. The method of Claim 212 further comprising securing a first end of the cable with a first cable clamp, and further comprising securing a second end of the S: cable with a second cable clamp, and, wherein both ends of the cable are secured prior to the step of tensioning the cable.

219. The method of Claim 212, wherein the step of tensioning comprises the tensioner concurrently holding the connector in place and pulling the cable through the connector until the tension of the cable reaches a predetermined amount.

220. The method of Claim 212 further comprising disengaging the tensioner oeoeo from the connector body after the step of securing the cable.

The method of Claim 212 further comprising removing the cable from a cable clamp after the step of securing the cable.

222. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the cable is positionable within the body in a first configuration such that a first portion and a second portion of the cable are in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to each other, and, wherein the cable is positionable within the body in a second configuration such that a first portion and a second portion of the cable are in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to each other.

223. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the cable is positionable within the body in a first configuration such that a first portion of the cable is positioned within the first duct and a second portion of the cable is positioned within the second duct, 29/09/00gc 1595.spe the first portion and second portion lying in a substantially parallel orientation with respect to each other, and, wherein the cable is positionable within the body in a second configuration such that the first portion of the cable is positioned within the first duct and the second portion of the cable is positioned within the opening, the first portion and second portion lying in a substantially perpendicular orientation with respect to each other.

224. The connector of Claim 82, wherein the human bone is a human spinal vertebra.

225. The connector of Claim 99, wherein the human bone is a human spinal vertebra.

226. The method of Claim 149, wherein the human bone is a human spinal vertebra. h

22 7 The surgical cable system of Claim 189, wherein the human bone is a .i human spinal vertebra.

228. The method of Claim 174, wherein the human bone is a human spinal vertebra.

S-229. The method of Claim 199, wherein the human bone is a human spinal vertebra.

230. A connector comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity, a first duct, and a second duct,, wherein at least one duct is adapted to communicate with the internal cavity; a cable adapted to pass through the body td form a loop for engaging a portion of a human spine during use; and a pin comprising an opening, the pin being positionable within the internal cavity,, wherein the pin is positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first position for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body, thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is positionable in a second position, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use. 29/09/00gcl 595.spc,46

231. A surgical cable system comprising: a body comprising an internal cavity; a cable adapted to pass through the body to form a loop for engaging a portion of a human spine during use; a pin positionable within the internal cavity during use in a first orientation for securing a portion of the cable with respect to the body thereby fixing the size of the loop during use, and, wherein the pin is rotatable to a second position, subsequent to securing the cable with respect to the body, such that the cable is moveable relative to the body to allow the size of the loop to be altered during use; and a tensioner adapted to vary the tension of the cable during use. Dated this 29th day of September, 2000. SPINAL CONCEPTS, INC. By their Patent Attorneys: CALLINAN LAWRIE **o 29/09/00gcl 1595.spe.47