US Patent 9867706 Tissue fastening system

A stabilization implant, such as a rod or plate, may be positioned adjacent spinous processes. Fasteners and sutures may be used to secure the rod or plate to the spine. A plurality of fasteners may be positioned against the rod or plate proximate to each spinous process. A second plurality of fasteners may be placed within or against the spinous processes. Sutures may extend between the fasteners and may be tensioned. The plate or rod may be positioned within or against the fractured bone. A fastener may be driven across the bone and locked onto the plate, rod, or another fastener.