Retractor system, self-retaining

Intended purpose

An assembly of devices used to create a self-locking mechanism to temporarily part tissue (e.g., hold the edges of a wound open), or other anatomical structures, to expose internal tissues or organs for access during surgery. The assembly may be anchored to the operating room table and may include devices such as horizontal bars, rings, ratchet mechanisms, fibreoptic lights, various attachment devices, and a variety of retractor blades. The component parts are typically made of metal and are reusable after sterilization.