Abstract: A surgical device and tool for use in stabilizing tissue, such as an organ relative to a clamp, the surgical device having an elongate rigid member with a proximal end of the device having a stabilizing structure that rests against the skin of the subject and includes a vessel guide for guiding a blood vessel attached to the organ or tissue, and a tapered distal end that mounts on the clamp. The surgical tool includes the combination of a clamp and the above-mentioned surgical device, with the clamp having a hinge pin with tapered socket that receives mounted the distal end of the device and a flap positioned on the proximal end. The tool is used to stabilize an organ by placement of the stabilizing structure against the skin of the subject, guiding a blood vessel with the vessel hook, using the flap to hold tissue away from the organ, and clamping such vessel distal to the vessel guide. A ligature is then placed across the vessel between the vessel guide and the clamp.

Abstract: A method for repairing a ligament using a crimp tube and a connector made of nylon or other suitable material. The method optionally utilizes a tensioner, a crimper, and a clamp. The method includes cutting open the skin and soft tissue surrounding the ligament, drilling holes through the bones surrounding the ligament, inserting a connector through the holes with the connector having a previously tightened knot at one end, placing a crimp tube around the connector at the opposite end of the connector from the knot, securing the connector in the tensioner, tightening the connector with the tensioner, crimping the crimp tube closed with the crimper against the connector, thereby securely coupling the bones together, and reattaching the skin and soft tissue.