Retractors hold tissue back so the surgeon can see and work. The choice between hand-held and self-retaining designs comes down to the depth of the wound, how long exposure is needed, and who is available to assist.
Hand-held retractors
Held by an assistant, they can be repositioned instantly as the operation moves on. Common patterns include:
- Langenbeck — right-angled blade on a handle; the everyday general-purpose retractor in a range of blade sizes.
- Czerny — double-ended, with a blade at one end and prongs at the other.
- Morris and Deaver — larger blades for abdominal work.
- Skin hooks and Senn retractors — for small, superficial wounds.
Self-retaining retractors
These hold themselves open with a ratchet or screw, freeing an assistant and giving steady exposure over a long procedure. Examples:
- Weitlaner and West — toothed, ratcheted retractors for small to medium incisions.
- Gelpi — single pointed tips, popular in orthopaedic and spinal surgery.
- Balfour and frame systems — for large abdominal procedures.
- Rib spreaders such as Finochietto for thoracic surgery.
Choosing well
- Blade depth should match the depth of the wound.
- Sharp or toothed tips grip well but can damage delicate tissue — use blunt patterns where vessels or nerves are nearby.
- For long procedures, self-retaining retractors reduce fatigue and keep exposure consistent.
See every retractor in our catalogue, with blade sizes and codes.
