Retracting and Exposing Instruments

 

---

---

---

Retracting and Exposing Instruments

---

---

Retracting and Exposing Instruments are used to hold back or retract organs or tissue to gain exposure to the operative site.   They are either "selfretaining" (stay open on their own) or "manual" (held by hand).  When identifying retractors, look at the blade, not the handle.

 

♦ A Deaver retractor (manual) is used to retract deep abdominal or chest incisions.  Available in various widths. 

  
♦ A Richardson retractor (manual) is used to retract deep abdominal or chest incisions 

  
♦ An Army-Navy retractor (manual) is used to retract shallow or superficial incisions.  Other names: USA, US Army. 
  

♦ A goulet (manual) is used to retract shallow or superficial incisions. 

 

  
♦ A malleable or ribbon retractor (manual) is used to retract deep wounds.  May be bent to various shapes.  

 

  
♦  A Weitlaner retractor (self-retaining) is used to retract shallow incisions. 

  

 

♦ A Gelpi retractor (self-retaining) is used to retract shallow incisions. 
 

  
♦ A Balfour with bladder blade (self-retaining) is used to retract wound edges during deep abdominal procedures. 

  

---

---

---

Don’t wish it were easier; wish you were better.