A novel retractor for use in cochlear implantation

A new self-retaining scalp retractor is described, which elevates the scalp away from the skull to allow better access and vision in preparing the bony recess for a cochlear implant and protect the pericranium from surgical trauma. It is designed for use with the present generation of small vertical scalp incisions in cochlear implant surgery. In these incisions, the part of the skull drilled to create the implant bed is not directly under the wound; instead, it extends under a flap of scalp and pericranium for 5 cm or more. The retractor is simple to use, and the authors believe that it represents a new type of retractor, which may have other uses in the fields of orthopedic; ear, nose, and throat, cosmetic, and plastic surgery. Photographs demonstrate the instrument in use. A cochlear implant company has agreed to manufacture the instrument.