retractor

1. An instrument for drawing aside the edges of a wound or for holding back structures adjacent to the operative field. 2. A muscle that draws a part backward, e.g., the middle part of the trapezius muscle is a r. of the scapula; the horizontal fibers of the temporalis muscle serve to retract the mandible.

- Desmarres r. an instrument used to withdraw an eyelid.

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re·trac·tor ri-'trak-tər n one that retracts: as

a) any of various surgical instruments for holding tissues away from the field of operation

b) a muscle that draws in an organ or part compare PROTRACTOR

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n.

a surgical instrument used to expose the operation site by drawing aside the cut edges of skin, muscle, or other tissues. There are several types of retractors for different operations.

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re·trac·tor (re-trakґtər) 1. an instrument for maintaining operative exposure by separating the edges of a wound and holding back underlying organs and tissues; many shapes, sizes, and styles are available. See accompanying table. 2. any retractile muscle.