Anchoring device and its implementation

Disclosed is a method of providing ligamentory like support between two spaced locations in the body of a patient comprising fixing an anchor in each location, connecting the anchors by a filamentary element, adjusting the tension of the filamentary element between the locations to establish the desired spatial relationship between the locations to provide at least a supplementary ligamentory support between the locations. The anchor (115) comprising a base (153), a head (157) having a configuration to facilitate insertion of the head into tissue and retention of the head in the tissue once inserted, the base formed with an aperture (161) adapted to receive a length of a filamentary element (127) and permit slidable movement of the filamentary element through the aperture in one direction but to restrict movement of the filamentary element through the aperture in the opposite direction. A holder (189) to support the anchor to effect is fixation into the tissue and an insertion appliance (173) to support the holder and be used in applying the anchor to the tissue.