Description

The O’Connell Nerve Root Retractor is a double-ended hand instrument used during spinal and neurosurgical procedures where a nerve root needs to be moved gently away from the operative area. Its two working ends give the surgeon a choice of tip orientation without changing instruments, which can be useful when the angle of access changes during a procedure. O’Connell retractors are commonly grouped with nerve root retractors used in spinal surgery.

The tips have a slender retraction profile suited to work around delicate neural structures. Rather than using a broad blade, this pattern allows the surgeon to position the working end close to the nerve root and maintain exposure around the operative site. The opposite ends also make the instrument useful when access is not identical on both sides of the surgical field.

At 21.5 cm (8½”) in length, the retractor provides enough reach for work within a deeper spinal exposure while remaining easy to handle. The double-ended construction is the main practical feature of this pattern: one instrument provides two working options, so the surgeon can select the end that better matches the angle and space available.

During procedures such as spinal decompression or discectomy, controlled nerve-root retraction can help expose the disc or other structures beneath or beside the nerve. The retractor is intended for careful, steady positioning rather than forceful movement, particularly when working in the confined operative space around the spinal nerves.

The instrument is made from surgical-grade stainless steel for repeated surgical use. Before use, both working ends should be checked for smooth surfaces, proper alignment, and any signs of bending or damage. The handle and shaft should also be inspected, with cleaning and sterilization carried out according to the facility’s established reprocessing procedures. Stainless-steel construction and reusable use are consistent with O’Connell nerve root retractors used for spinal and neurosurgical applications.

With its 21.5 cm (8½”) length and double-ended design, the O’Connell Nerve Root Retractor offers two working options in one instrument for controlled nerve-root retraction during spinal procedures.