Patent ID: 8241288

Claim:
A system for stabilization of a fractured bone, the system comprising: a bone fixation element comprising a body having a first end and a second end, the body comprising a first passageway and a second passageway, the first passageway extending between the first end and the second end, the second passageway extending between the first end and the second end, the second passageway decreasing in diameter from the second end to the first end; a first collet comprising a proximal portion, a distal portion comprising at least one slit, and a central bore; the first collet further comprising a first engaged position wherein the first collet is positioned at least partially within the first passageway; a second collet; and a flexible line comprising a first working portion and a second working portion connected to the first working portion, the first working portion comprising a first extended position wherein the first working portion is routed through the central bore; the second working portion attached to the body in a fixed position relative to the second passageway; wherein the distal portion of the first collet circumferentially engages the first working portion of the flexible line when the first collet is in the first position and the first working portion is in the first extended position, such that the first working portion of the flexible line is held in a fixed position relative to the first passageway; wherein the second collet is positioned in the second passageway such that the second collet advances toward the first end to reach a first engaged position of the second collet, wherein in response to advancement toward the first end, the decreased diameter of the first end compresses the second collet to cause the second collet to circumferentially engage the second working portion.