Abstract: A tensioning tool is provided for applying tension to a band. The tensioning tool includes a handle. The tensioning tool also includes a barrel having a channel at an end of the barrel. The channel is configured to receive a portion of the band. The tensioning tool also includes a cutting blade that is configured to remove an excess portion of a band. The tensioning tool has a tension limit that is the maximum tension that can be applied to a band, and the tensioning tool is configured to apply tension to the band until the tension limit has been reached. The tensioning tool is configured to actuate the cutting blade to cut the band upon at least one of the tension limit being reached or upon a user command.

Abstract: A sheath is provided. The sheath includes a core channel, and the core channel is configured to receive a tensioning element. The tensioning element is configured to circumscribe a bone, and the sheath is configured to be placed around a bone when the tensioning element received in the core channel circumscribes the bone. The sheath is configured to prevent direct contact between the tensioning element and the bone as the tensioning element is tensioned.

Abstract: A tensioning tool is provided for applying tension to a band. The tensioning tool includes a handle. The tensioning tool also includes a barrel having a channel at an end of the barrel. The channel is configured to receive a portion of the band. The tensioning tool also includes a cutting blade that is configured to remove an excess portion of a band. The tensioning tool has a tension limit that is the maximum tension that can be applied to a band, and the tensioning tool is configured to apply tension to the band until the tension limit has been reached. The tensioning tool is configured to actuate the cutting blade to cut the band upon at least one of the tension limit being reached or upon a user command.

Abstract: Boron trichloride is prepared by free radical liquid phase chlorination of borate ester, e.g., trimethylborate, at temperatures of between about 0.degree. C. and 100.degree. C., in the presence of an inert liquid organic solvent, e.g., carbon tetrachloride. The reaction temperature is controlled by condensing and returning to the reactor vaporized solvent removed from the reactor with the gaseous reaction products of the chlorination reaction, and by removing a portion of the liquid reaction medium from the reactor to an externally cooled heat extraction zone wherein the liquid reaction medium is cooled and returning the cooled liquid reaction medium to the reactor.