A self-retaining retractor for improved exposure of the infrarenal abdominal aorta

A simple method of achieving better exposure of the infrarenal abdominal aorta during aortoiliac surgery is reported. Once the aorta is exposed, the peritoneum, retroperitoneal fat and the inferior vena cava are spread by an orthostatic retractor, of a Weilaner type, modified by the author, to meet this particular requirement.