Schuknecht Retractor

Description

Schuknecht Retractor

The Schuknecht retractor is a self-retaining ear surgery retractor. Otologists often set it in a postauricular incision to hold the skin and soft tissue open.

Holding the incision behind the ear

Many middle ear and mastoid operations start with an incision behind the ear. Once the surgeon lifts the soft tissue, this retractor keeps the wound spread. As a result, both hands stay free for the microscope and drill.

Teeth and prongs

Each arm carries three teeth, so the listing gives them as 3×3. You can choose Sharp or Blunt prongs. Sharp prongs bite firmly into the tissue edge, while blunt prongs press with less trauma.

Named after Schuknecht

Several ear instruments carry the name of Harold Schuknecht, a leading figure in otology. Also, this retractor sits comfortably among other otology tools on a standard tray. Many teams pair it with a second retractor at right angles.

Sharp or blunt: how to choose

First, think about the thickness of the tissue you usually retract. For thin skin, blunt prongs may be enough. For thicker flaps, however, sharp prongs tend to hold more securely.

Caring for your Schuknecht retractor

Spread the arms wide while you rinse, so no tissue stays between the teeth. Then brush each prong with a small nylon brush. Finally, dry the retractor and sterilize it in the open position if your protocol allows.

Schuknecht retractor specifications

• Self-retaining postauricular retractor
• Teeth: 3×3
• Prongs: Sharp or Blunt
• Stainless steel

Ordering details

We cover this ear retractor with a three-year warranty against poor workmanship of any kind. Before it ships from Atlanta, a colleague checks each tooth by hand. Questions on invoices or delivery go to our FAQ page. For the three-by-three teeth and body we look to ASTM F899 as the steel standard. A smaller endaural option is our Snitman retractor. Browse the entire ENT category too.

For otology professionals only. Our care and sterilization guide gives notes on how retractor photos match stock and on nickel in stainless steel. Return steps sit on our returns page.