Abstract: A novel surgical fastener is disclosed for attaching soft tissues (e.g. ligaments, tendons and the like) to bone and bone-like structures. The surgical fastener comprises a shank and an enlarged head disposed on one end of the shank. A central bore passes completely through the fastener along its longitudinal axis, and a plurality of diametrically projecting ribs are disposed along the length of the shank. The foregoing fastener is used to attach soft tissues (e.g. ligaments, tendons and the like) to bone and bone-like structures in the following manner.

Abstract: An improved locking cap for mounting on the smooth flexible filament of a surgical fastener wherein the locking cap is of a thin flat washer-like shape with gripping elements for engaging the filament and locking the cap in position relative to the filament.