A tension device (20) for applying tension to an orthopedic cable loop system is designed to remain implanted in vivo after completion of the surgical procedure in which the device is used. The tension device (20) may include a spool (30) rotatable in one direction, such as by having outer flanges (42) engageable with ratcheting protrusions (34) along a cavity (35) within the body (25) of the device. The tension device (20) may maintain a biasing force on the cable (50), which force may be applied by an elastic material. For example, the elastic may be provided in an opening (66) of the body (25) of the device (20). In another example, the elastic may be provided in the spool (30), such as by constructing the flanges (42) of the spool (30) of elastic material or by providing an elastic layer (65) between an inner ring (42a) and an outer ring (42b) of the spool (30). Other biasing components as well as measuring components may be provided in the tension device (20).
