Methods and apparatuses are disclosed relating to surgical implants having one or more strands extending from the implant to assist with the installation of the implants into patients. In one example, the strand may be used during installation to provide a constant reference to the trailing edge of the implant in situ. In another example, the strand may be used during installation to provide guidance to the implant for instrumentation. In another example, the strand may be used during installation to provide the ability to pull back on the implant. In another example, the strand allows for novel designs of installation and removal instruments.