What type of instrument is a retractor?

A retractor is specifically designed to hold tissue away from the surgical site, which is essential for providing a clear and unobstructed view for the surgeon during procedures. By keeping the surrounding tissues or organs out of the way, retractors help ensure that the surgeon has ample space to work, thus enhancing visibility and access to the area being operated on. This function is crucial in various surgical procedures where precision and visibility are paramount, making retractors integral to the surgical toolkit. Their design allows for different types of retraction, depending on the surgical needs, which distinguishes them from instruments that cut or grasp tissues.