Introduction: The insertion of available cervical retractor systems is relatively complex for a limited exposure required for single level anterior cervical discectomy. A novel cervical retractor system is introduced and the initial experience of its application is reported.
Methods: A simple retractor system is designed which is fixed to the vertebral body through the Caspar pins. The design allows the retractor to move with vertebrae, during distraction through traditional Caspar distractor system. The advantages and limitations of the device based on the initial experience are discussed.
Results: The author has utilized current version of the retractor on 32 cases of single level anterior cervical discectomies. The insertion of the retractor is easy and its application provides safe and satisfactory anterior cervical exposure. There have not been related complications, although transient dysphagia has not been prevented.
Conclusions: The designed retractor system is simple and efficient for single level anterior cervical discectomy and its insertion is relatively easier.
Patient Care: Insertion of the presented retractor system is relatively easier. It has the potential to reduce operation time and make it less invasive and easier. The true effectiveness of the current retractor system compared with the others in various settings awaits evaluation through a randomized controlled trial.
Learning Objectives: By the conclusion of this poster, the readers will be familiar with the designed retractor system and its advantages and disadvantages
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