An inexpensive and effective retractor for transanal surgery

Area of Science:

• Surgical Instrumentation
• Colorectal Surgery
• Anorectal Procedures

Background:

• Transanal surgery requires adequate exposure of the anal canal.
• Current retractors may be cumbersome or limit surgeon access.
• A need exists for an easily producible, effective retractor for transanal procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the creation of a novel, cost-effective retractor for transanal surgery.
• To highlight the functional advantages of this improvised retractor.

Main Methods:

• Modification of a standard colostomy appliance by removing the polyethylene bag.
• Creation of notches in the appliance's outer circumference to form a pliable ring.
• Attachment of silk sutures to the ring for placement at the dentate line.

Main Results:

• The modified appliance functions as a retractor conforming to patient anatomy.
• The device effectively everts the anus, exposing key landmarks.
• It frees the hands of surgical assistants and clearly demarcates the dentate line.

Conclusions:

• An improvised retractor from a colostomy appliance offers an effective solution for transanal surgery.
• This method provides excellent visualization and facilitates surgical maneuvers.
• It represents a practical and economical approach to improving surgical exposure in the anal region.