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Published on: January 16, 2011
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Retractor in retractor technique
Levent Çetin1, Edip Temiz1, Erkan Kuralay1
1Lokman Hekim Hospital, Lokman Hekim University, Citipiti Sokak NO:6 Angora Evleri Çayyolu, Çankaya, Ankara, Turkey.
Indian Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|October 16, 2020
Summary
Obese patients undergoing open heart surgery face challenges with retractor placement. A novel dual-retractor technique facilitates stabilization devices, simplifying off-pump coronary bypass operations in these patients.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Surgery
- Surgical Techniques
- Obesity in Medicine
Background:
- Obese patients present unique surgical challenges during open heart procedures.
- Short neck length and excessive breast tissue complicate retractor and stabilization device placement.
- Off-pump coronary bypass (OPCAB) surgery is particularly demanding in this patient population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel technique for improving retractor and stabilization device placement in obese patients undergoing OPCAB.
- To facilitate technically demanding cardiac surgeries in patients with anatomical challenges.
Main Methods:
- A dual-retractor system was employed during OPCAB procedures.
- The first retractor was positioned at the sternal edges.
- A second retractor was placed within the first, creating additional height and a stable platform.
Main Results:
- The dual-retractor maneuver successfully created extra height.
- This facilitated easier placement of stabilization devices.
- The technique addressed the difficulties associated with obese patient anatomy.
Conclusions:
- The described dual-retractor technique simplifies OPCAB in obese patients.
- This approach enhances surgical feasibility by overcoming anatomical limitations.
- This maneuver is a valuable addition for complex cardiac surgeries in challenging patient populations.

