Loop

Abstract

A continuous loop of material for use in mammals, particularly humans. One embodiment may have an air entanglement section therein and method of making the same. Another embodiment includes a hollow braided length having a first inner section and a second inner section, the sections formed by radially inserting the ends into the hollow braid and passing it along a portion of the hollow interior. These embodiments may also include a bone engagement member incorporated therein. A further embodiment is a loop assembly having a length of fiber, the length of fiber having two ends, and a bone engagement member having an end receiving member to securely receive the two respective ends therein.

1 .- 16 . (canceled) 
     
     
         17 . A loop assembly comprising:
 a plurality of fiber lengths forming a continuous loop; and   at least one fiber entangled section location along the loop, wherein the entangled section is created by exposing a portion of the loop to a high pressure fluid.   
     
     
         18 . The loop assembly of  claim 17  further comprising a bone engagement member incorporated within the continuous loop. 
     
     
         19 . A loop assembly for use in minimally invasive surgery, the assembly comprising:
 a length of fibers, the length having a first end and a second end; and   a bone engaging member, the bone engaging member having an end receiving area for receiving the first and second ends of the length of fibers, whereby when the end receiving area receives the first and second ends, the ends are secured therein.   
     
     
         20 . The loop assembly of  claim 19  wherein the end receiving area is a crimping sleeve. 
     
     
         21 . The loop assembly of  claim 20  wherein the ends are secured by deforming the crimping sleeve. 
     
     
         22 . The loop assembly of  claim 19  further comprising a bone engaging surface wherein the bone engaging surface is opposed to the end receiving area.