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Roux C shaped retractor - uses, history, dimensions & precautions

 

What is Roux C-shaped retractor?

Roux C-shaped retractor is generally used during abdominal surgeries such as laparoscopy and hysterectomy to hold back tissue and improve visibility of the operating area.

Overview / Product Profile of Roux C-shaped retractor:

Roux C-shaped retractor has two curved blades, connected by a central handle. The surgeon can change the depth of the incision with help of the movable blades. For optimum exposure, the blades are made to fit closely against the abdomen wall. Additionally, the retractor incorporates a spring-loaded mechanism that makes insertion and withdrawal simple.

Dimensions:

Length:

Length of the blade of Roux C-shaped retractor ranges from approximately 8 to 12 inches.

Width:

Width of the blade of Roux C-shaped retractor ranges from approximately 1 to 2 inches.

Distance betwwen two blades:

The distance between the two blades (the "C" shape) is also variable and can range from approximately 2 to 4 inches.

Note: The above dimensions may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer and specific design of the instrument. It's always advisable to consult with the manufacturer's specifications and guidance for accurate measurements.

Uses of Roux C-shaped retractor:

Roux C-shaped retractor can be used in:
1) Cheek and soft tissue retractions during oral and maxillofacial surgery.
2) During jaw surgery, the mandible and temporomandibular joint are exposed.
3) During dental operations, the tongue and mouth cavity retract.
4) During nasal surgery, the sinuses and nasal cavity are retracted.
5) During salivary gland surgery, the parotid and submandibular glands are exposed.
6) During throat and laryngeal surgery, the pharynx and larynx retract.
7) During spinal surgery, the cervical spine retracts.
8) During esophageal surgery, the cervical and thoracic oesophagus are exposed.
9) During thyroid and parathyroid surgery, the thyroid and parathyroid glands retract.
10) During thoracic surgery, the larynx, trachea, and bronchi are retracted.

Precautions with Roux C-shaped retractor:

1) Before using the retractor, always make sure it has been adequately sterilised.
2) Choose the retractor's size and shape carefully based on the intended surgical operation.
3) When inserting the retractor, exercise caution to prevent injury to nearby structures or tissue.
4) While the retractor is in place, keep an eye on the patient's vital signs and degree of discomfort.
5) To prevent tissue necrosis, don't leave the retractor in place for too long.
6) Carefully remove the retractor to prevent accidently hurting the patient.
7) When employing the retractor, use moderate force to prevent hurting the patient.
8) After usage, carefully dispose of the retractor to stop the spread of bacteria.

History of Roux C-shaped retractor:

The Roux C-shaped retractor, also known as the Roux-en-Y retractor, is a surgical instrument used in laparoscopic and open surgery to hold back and retract tissue. It was first developed by French surgeon Charles-Henri Roux in the early 20th century.

Laparoscopic surgery was in its infancy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and open surgery was the main technique utilised for abdominal surgeries. French surgeon Charles-Henri Roux saw the need for a more effective technique to retract and expose the tissue during open surgery. He created the Roux C-shaped retractor in response.

The Roux C-shaped retractor is a specialist tool with a curved, C-shaped construction, a handle on one end, and a retracting blade on the other. A tiny incision is made to insert the blade into the abdominal cavity, which is subsequently opened to retract the tissue and provide the surgeon access to the organs beneath. Controlling the position and angle of the blade is done using the handle on the opposite end.

Traditional retractors of the period were straight and did not offer the same level of accuracy and control as Roux's design, which was a huge improvement. The Roux retractor's C-shaped design provided for improved abdominal cavity access and visualisation, which enhanced surgical precision and results.

The Roux C-shaped retractor soon gained popularity among surgeons and is still often used in both open and laparoscopic procedures today. With the inclusion of features like locking mechanisms, angle adjustments, and ergonomic grips, the instrument has been improved over time.

The Roux C-shaped retractor has been employed in numerous operations recently, including liver resection, hernia repair, and gallbladder surgery. Due to its adaptability and accuracy, the instrument has become a crucial part of the surgical arsenal.

In conclusion, French surgeon Charles-Henri Roux invented the Roux C-shaped retractor in the first decade of the 20th century. During surgery, it is used to retract tissue to provide visibility and access to the abdominal cavity. Its creation represented a substantial advancement over earlier retractors and is still often employed in both open and laparoscopic surgery today.


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