Apparatus for retaining otherwise hand-held retractors

Abstract

A retractor retaining device retains an otherwise handheld retractor in the retraction position. The device includes a flexible loop that is detachably attached to a retractor support proximate the surgical wound with the loop engaging a proximal end or handle of the retractor to retain the retractor in the retraction position.

1 - 28 . (canceled)  
   
   
       29 . A retractor retaining device for retaining a retractor in a retraction position within a surgical wound, the device comprising: 
 a retractor support; and    a flexible cord detachably attached at one end to the retractor support for engaging a proximal end of the retractor such that the retractor is retained in the retraction position.    
   
   
       30 . The device of  claim 29  and further including a main body attachable to the retractor support.  
   
   
       31 . The device of  claim 29  and further including an attaching mechanism that engages and attaches the retaining device to the retractor support.  
   
   
       32 . The device of  claim 31  wherein the retractor support has a plurality of apertures and the attaching mechanism has an aperture engaging member for engaging one of the apertures.  
   
   
       33 . The device of  claim 30  wherein the main body includes a V-type slot and wherein the cord is engageable within the V-type slot such that the second end of the cord is detachably attached to the main body.  
   
   
       34 . A method of holding a surgical retractor in a retraction position within a surgical wound, the method comprising: 
 providing a support member near the surgical wound;    inserting a distal end of a retractor within the surgical wound and manually positioning the retractor in the retraction position; and    securing the retractor in the retraction position by engaging a proximal end of the retractor with a flexible cord that is attached to the support member    
   
   
       35 . The method of  claim 34  wherein the cord is attached to the support member by engaging a V-shaped slot.