A method for repairing separated tissues utilises a tissue tensioner including a locking member, a band, a frame, and a restraining member. One end of the band is attached to a first end of the frame. Tension is applied to the band so that it moves freely between spaced engaging surfaces on the locking bar and a second end of the frame, while a restraining member restrains the locking member to a non-engaging position. Application of a predetermined level of tension on the band causes the restraining member to move to a non-restraining orientation, thereby in turn causing the locking member to move so that its engaging surfaces engage the engaging surfaces of the frame, clamping the band. An alarm is triggered to notify a practitioner that the predetermined level of tension has been achieved and that the restraining member has thus moved to the non-restraining orientation.
