A retractor is a surgical instrument used to separate the edges of a surgical incision or wound, or to hold back underlying organs and tissues so that body parts under the incision may be accessed.

What is the purpose of retractors?

In varying forms, retractors are used to hold an incision open, hold back tissues or other objects to maintain a clear surgical field, or reach other structures. They can either be hand-held or self-retaining via a ratcheting mechanism. Tube: Used primarily for surface suction and some intra-abdominal suction.

What are Weitlaner retractors used for?

Use of Weitlaner Retractor

It is used to hold the incisions in the case of orthopaedic surgeries as most of the incisions are shallow. Moreover, it is used in neurosurgical procedures to hold the skin of the scalp in procedures like craniotomy.