9,886 devices · GMDN 45182
Self-retaining surgical retractors are reusable, hand-operated instruments designed to hold open surgical incisions during open procedures, providing clear access to internal tissues or organs. Their two hooked blades and self-locking mechanism keep the wound margins separated without requiring constant manual adjustment, improving surgeon ergonomics and stability during procedures.
These devices are typically regulated as surgical instruments, often subject to performance standards or general safety requirements depending on jurisdiction. They are commonly supplied as standalone, one-piece tools rather than as part of a larger mounting system, and may be clinically dedicated for specific surgical specialties beyond general use.
This category summary is AI-generated from the GMDN nomenclature and has not been verified by a human reviewer.