Patent ID: 6572541
Filing Date: 2003-06-03
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
A retractor system for use in surgery comprising:an assistance member having an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface having at least one nipple protruding upward therefrom, at least one retractor comprising a shaft having a tissue engagement means at one end, the shaft having a plurality of nipple mating holes disposed longitudinally therealong capable of releasably receiving and mating with the at least one nipple on the assistance member whereby the retractor is removably attachable to the assistance member, at least one fastening means applied to the lower surface of the assistance member engaging a patient's skin surface whereby the assistance member and retractors attached thereto are securely fastened to the skin of the patient thereby avoiding detrimental movement during surgery, wherein the fastening means comprises a double sided adhesive patch of a size at least sufficient to cover the lower surface of the assistance member, and a surgical sheet having a large opening therein corresponding to a surgical site, and a plurality of holes disposed about the periphery of the large opening and of a size to permit passage of the nipples therethrough wherein the assistance member is positioned on the patient beneath the sheet such that the nipples protrude through the holes and the fastening means is of a size greater than the lower surface of the assistance member to engage and secure the surgical sheet relative to the assistance member.