a ligament - tensioning device and method for activation of the ligament and / or capsule system in the implantation of a joint implant . the device includes a distal bearing plate for bearing against a distal skeletal part , and also includes first and second proximal bearing plates , each of which partially overlaps the distal bearing plate in a first in - use position , for bearing against a proximal skeletal part . the device further includes means for relative displacement of the proximal bearing plates to increase their spacing from the distal bearing plate . the displacement means includes a scissor - type guide means that supports the respective proximal bearing plate in the ventral - dorsal as well as the medial - lateral parallel position with respect to the distal bearing plate .