Description

The Ross Aortic Retractor is a hand-held instrument that is used to retract tissue and improve access to the aortic valve during cardiac surgery. It has a long and straight shaft with a small curved blade at one end and a broad and rounded handle at the other end. The blade turns upward from the shaft and gives it a hooked profile.

The retractor measures 26 cm (10½”) in length and is available in six blade widths, including 16 mm, 20 mm, two variants of 23 mmm, and two variants of 26 mm. The difference in sizes allows the surgeon to select a blade according to the operative area and the amount of tissue that needs to be held aside.

The working blade is slightly shorter when compared with the shaft. Its curved shape helps it sit against the tissue being retracted, while the long handle remains outside the immediate surgical field. The handle has a smooth, widened grip that tapers toward the shaft.

This instrument is used in cardiac surgery, particularly procedures involving exposure of the aortic valve. It helps hold tissue away from the operative site so the surgeon can work around the valve. The appropriate blade size depends on the surgical approach and the space available.

Made from surgical stainless steel, the retractor is intended for repeated use after cleaning and sterilization. Before dispatch, each instrument is inspected for defects in the blade, shaft, handle and surface finish. The working end is checked for rough edges, and the blade-to-shaft connection is examined.

The Ross Aortic Retractor is 26 cm long and comes in six numbered blade widths. Its hooked working end, straight shaft and broad handle make it suitable for tissue retraction during cardiac procedures involving the aortic valve.