Tracheotomy is a surgical procedure in which an incision is made into the anterior portion of the neck. Multiple surgical retractors are needed for this sometimes-urgent surgery. The purpose of a tracheotomy is to gain access to the trachea to insert a tube to aid breathing. Tracheotomies may be conducted for conditions such as infection, …
Orthopedic surgeries use a range of surgical retractors because orthopedic surgeons deal with bones of many shapes, sizes, and constitutions. These retractors’ primary purpose is easier to see and access the surgical field. Retractors in orthopedic surgery are also used to elevate bones, provide traction, and aid in placing orthopedic fixtures. This article covers retractors …
Retractors used in oral surgery or dental surgery are primarily involved in moving tissue away from the surgical site to improve both visibility and access. They are also used to move buccal tissue away from the site. Some retractors are used to retract the palate to provide access to the posterior portion of the oral …
The demand for breast (mammary) surgeries continues to increase, for clinical and curative surgeries, and for cosmetic surgeries. Retractors are essential devices for these surgeries, to ensure safe separation of the tissue and clear visibility for the surgeon. A challenge in breast surgery is achieving the appropriate operative field. Surgeons have to dissect deep spaces …
Lighted retractors (or light retractors) are surgical tools that both separate bodily tissues and provide light inside the bodily cavity. This light feature gives the surgeon greater visibility as it holds body parts open, which is the conventional function of surgical retractors. Lighted retractors also eliminate or reduce the need for secondary light sources. In …
The choice of devices used during medical procedures affects imaging quality, especially when the devices block the image. Using certain materials might also increase the radiation dose to the patient, which naturally isn’t a good thing. And using some materials on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be dangerous. Understanding the physical and chemical properties of …
As most surgeons and assistants know, retractors can be your best friend and your worst enemy. They make it possible to see and access the operative field, yet they can seriously fatigue your hands, arms, and shoulders. Retraction of tissues or anatomical structures is an essential part of surgery, and various types of retractors get …
Ways to Reduce Fatigue from Using Surgical Retractors Read More »
LEDs (light-emitting diodes) enable strong light with less electricity. They help reduce our carbon footprint and improve information technologies. Their emergence in the late-20th century has now made its way into powerful and convenient new options for surgical lighting. These include surgical devices. LEDs don’t only provide more light, they can reduce infection rates, promote …
Benefits of LED Lighting for Surgery (Brightness and Portability) Read More »
Surgical retractors are typically made from metals or plastics. Metal retractors were the standard for a very long time, but high-performance plastics are now viable, practical alternatives, with many advantages. Surgical-grade plastics, such as polycarbonates and polyacrylamides, are materials that have become alternatives to steel, titanium, and other metals. Plastics and metals each have pros …
Metal vs. Plastic Surgical Retractors – Pros and Cons Read More »
The koplight™ has been recognized not just for its efficacy in surgery but also for its overall innovation. Among Japanese products, which are noted for their precision and quality, this is a special achievement Japanese national broadcaster NHK featured Yasui and the koplight™ lighted surgical retractor on its English-language NHK World program. The broadcast of …
