A method of implanting an anal sling in a patient having an anal sphincter with a defective portion, including: linking a first point on the anal sphincter and a second point on the anal sphincter, wherein the second point opposes the first point across the defective portion of the anal sphincter and tightening the anal sling across the defective portion of the anal sphincter. In a preferred embodiment, linking the first and second points on the anal sphincter includes passing a first end of the anal sling, coupled to a first-side needle tool, through the anal sphincter at the first point and passing a second end of the anal sling, coupled to a second-side needle, through the anal sphincter at the second point.
