Implant devices and systems for stabilized fixation of bone and soft tissue

A method for effecting repair of tissue using a tissue fixation band apparatus comprising a lock, a button, and a suture band, under tension, extending between the lock and the button, the suture band having first and second ends, comprising:

• pulling the button through a hole extending through the tissue to be repaired, until it exits a distal surface of the tissue and engages the distal surface of the tissue;
• pulling the suture band on each of the first and second ends to locate the lock in position on a proximal surface of the tissue;
• applying tension to the first and second ends of the suture band exiting from the lock of the fixation band apparatus to tension the suture band to a desired level;
• and
• causing a fastener within the lock to move to a clamping position, to thereby engage the lock and clamp the suture band in place at the desired tension level, wherein the suture band comprises a length extending between the lock and the button, the suture band comprising doubled-over suture along said length, in its entirety, the causing step comprising tightening the fastener to cause a cap having a lower clamping surface to move to a locking position;
• wherein the lock comprises a plug assembly having a horizontally disposed flange comprising an upper end of a plug and extending across an entire width of the plug, the cap moving downwardly into engagement with the flange when the causing step is performed, the cap preventing the suture band from moving through slots in the flange when the cap is in the locking position.