In a C-section, which retractor is used to protect the bladder?

The De Lee retractor is specifically designed for use in abdominal and pelvic surgery, including cesarean sections, to protect the bladder by holding back the tissue and providing visibility during the procedure. Its structure features a shallow, curved design that helps to gently retract the bladder away from the surgical field, minimizing the risk of injury during the incision and delivery process.

This choice is particularly pertinent in a C-section setting, where the careful handling and protection of surrounding organs, like the bladder, are of utmost importance to prevent complications. The other retractors mentioned, while useful in various surgical contexts, do not serve the specific function of bladder protection in the way the De Lee retractor does. For example, the Weitlaner is more often used for general tissue retraction and does not have a design suited for bladder protection. The O'Sullivan-O'Connor retractor, aimed primarily at gynecological procedures, is also not tailored specifically for this kind of protection. Lastly, a malleable retractor is versatile but lacks the specific curvature needed to ensure the bladder is safeguarded effectively during a C-section.