an implantable, elongated tape having a multiplicity of openings formed through the thickness thereof, the tape having a first end region and a second end region longitudinally opposite the first end region; and

first and second bio-absorbable fixation elements substantially surrounding the first and second end regions of the tape respectively, each bio-absorbable fixation element having a tissue adherence property greater than that of the tape, and having a substantially rectangular, planar configuration without physical projections extending outwardly therefrom, wherein each fixation element is comprised of a fleece material fabricated from a composite of a first polymer and a second polymer, the first polymer being prepared from monomers selected from the group of lactide and glycolide, and the second polymer being a poly(p-dioxanone) polymer, rich in poly(p-dioxanone).