Patent ID: 8048109
Filing Date: 2011-11-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A method of preventing tissue creep at the distal end of a retractor member during surgical procedures comprising the steps of: providing a retractor member having a distal end; providing at least one extension member comprising mounting means for removably mounting said extension member in a fixed, non-moving, position on said retractor member, said mounting means comprising a clip member disposed on said extension member, wherein said extension member can be mounted at a plurality of locations on said retractor member; positioning said retractor in a patient; providing an applicator tool for handling said extension member during mounting on said retractor member; and mounting said at least one extension member on said retractor member after said retractor has been positioned such that said distal end of said retractor member is received by said clip member and at least part of said extension member extends beyond said distal end of said retractor member; wherein said mounting step comprises: temporarily mounting said extension member to said applicator tool; inserting said extension member and said applicator tool into said retractor member; mounting said extension member on said retractor member; releasing said extension member from said applicator tool; removing said applicator tool from said retractor member.