====== Retractor Hook ====== **[[Retractor]] [[hook]]** (also known as a surgical hook retractor) is a handheld or self-retaining surgical instrument used to hold back soft tissue, muscle, skin, or organs to provide better exposure of the surgical field. ===== Purpose and Function ===== * To retract tissue or anatomical structures during surgical procedures. * Allows the surgeon unobstructed visualization and access to the target area. * Reduces the need for manual retraction by assistants. ===== Types ===== === By Design === * **Sharp hook**: Penetrates fascia or muscle. Used in spinal, orthopedic, or neurosurgical exposure. * **Blunt hook**: Retracts softer structures without trauma (e.g., vessels or nerves). * **Skin hook**: Fine and delicate, used in plastic or ophthalmic surgery. === By Configuration === * **Handheld**: Requires manual control by assistant or surgeon. * **Self-retaining**: Mounted or attached to retraction systems (e.g., Leyla arm, Greenberg system). ===== Common Examples ===== * **Cushing hook** * **Cloward hook** * **Hohmann retractor (with hook tip)** * **Adson hook** * **Miyake nerve hook** ===== Surgical Uses ===== * **Neurosurgery**: Retraction of dura, nerve roots, brain parenchyma. * **Orthopedic surgery**: Exposure of joints, bones, and ligaments. * **ENT and plastic surgery**: Fine tissue handling with minimal trauma. * **Spinal surgery**: Retraction of paraspinal muscles, lamina, or dura. ===== Key Considerations ===== * Must avoid excessive pressure to prevent tissue ischemia or nerve damage. * Sharp hooks must be used carefully to prevent accidental puncture. * Always assess anatomical relationships before placement. * Should be cleaned and inspected regularly to maintain sharpness and integrity. ===== Related Instruments ===== * Langenbeck retractor * Rake retractor * Deaver retractor * Nerve root retractor * Malleable retractor