Balfour Retractor Uses, Sizes, Parts, Function

During surgeries where big abdominal incisions need to be held open to provide the surgeon more visibility like during a cesarean section, the self-retaining Balfour Abdominal Retractor is employed. Canadian doctor and educator Donald Church Balfour of the Mayo Clinic designed this retractor. The side walls of the Balfour Retractor can be adjusted to different lengths and maximum widths. There are configurations available featuring either fixed or detached systems. 

Balfour Retractor Uses

Balfour retractors are surgical tools used during abdominal procedures to hold the wound or incision open, allowing access to the operating site among tightly packed organs and tissues. They are essential for cesarean sections, laparotomies, liver, stomach, ruptured diaphragm repairs, and intestinal ablation.

Balfour Tractor Parts

The Balfour retractor is made up of two broad and curved blades that are attached to a ratchet mechanism with a central blade. The incision is opened by pushing the blades apart, and they are self-retaining, allowing the surgeon to focus on the treatment without the need for a helper to hold the wound open.

The retractors are manufactured of high-quality German-forged stainless steel to ensure longevity and strength, and they are available with solid slide blades to improve grip and precision. 

Dual solid and wire blades are included in the Balfour Self-Retaining Retractor to secure and retract skin, organs, tissues, vessels, and sheaths for easier access. For surgeons, these retractors are not only flexible and cost-effective instruments, but they also can be sterilized, adjustable, and reusable.

Balfour Retractor Sizes

Balfour Retractors come in different shapes and sizes and are used to hold back organs and tissues during abdominal treatments. Balfour Retractors vary in size by manufacturer and model. Available sizes mostly include 14 centimeters, 18 centimeters, 25 centimeters, and 40.6 centimeters. Depending on the model, the retractor can spread 8.5 to 16 inches. The model affects blade depth, width, and central blade size.

Balfour Retractor Function

Balfour Retractor for Abdominal Surgeries: This device helps expose organs and tissues during abdominal surgeries, making operations like bowel and appendectomy easier. Balfour Retractor for Thoracic Surgery: This device facilitates access to the chest cavity during thoracic surgeries, supporting treatments involving the heart and lungs. Balfour Retractor in Gynecological Surgeries: It is used in gynecological surgeries to provide a clear view of the pelvic area, boosting the precision of procedures such as hysterectomies.