Abstract: Elastic-loaded, retractable shank surgical pins having a hollow shank adapted to receive an elastic-loaded retractable shank can be inserted into the bone flap or into the walls of the skull cavity from which the bone flap has been removed, the retractable shank compressed against the elastic loading, and the bone flap placed into position in the skull cavity. The retractable shanks are allowed to expand outwards into corresponding holes positioned in the skull or bone flap, securing the latter in place without the necessity of protruding wires or other conventional locating devices. The pins need not be positioned parallel to each other, and may be spaced around the bone flap, preferably constituting the sole means of securing the bone flap in the skull cavity.