Description

The Balfour Abdominal Retractor is a common and essential self-retaining surgical instrument used primarily in general abdominal surgery.

It is designed to hold large abdominal incisions open, giving the surgeon a clear, wide, and stable view of the abdominal cavity.

Key Components and Function

The Balfour Retractor is a robust system that uses three main components to achieve hands-free retraction:

1. Frame (Side Blades): Two broad, curved blades are mounted on a ratchet mechanism. These blades pull the sides of the abdominal incision apart.
2. Central Blade: A third blade, often deep and solid, attaches to the frame and can be adjusted up and down. This blade is used to gently hold back organs (like the bowel or bladder) that lie deep in the abdomen.
3. Ratchet Mechanism: This allows the surgeon to precisely adjust the spread and lock the blades in place, maintaining constant, secure retraction throughout the operation.