What abdominal retractor should be available for a total abdominal hysterectomy?

The O'Sullivan-O'Connor retractor is specifically designed for use in gynecological surgeries, such as a total abdominal hysterectomy. It has a unique design that allows for optimal exposure of the pelvic and abdominal cavity while providing the versatility to adapt to different surgical approaches. The retractable arms can be adjusted to hold back the abdominal wall, allowing the surgeon easy access to the pelvic organs, which is essential during a hysterectomy. Additionally, it has self-retaining properties, which can help maintain exposure without requiring constant manual assistance from the surgical team.

The other retractors mentioned have different features that may not be as well suited for a total abdominal hysterectomy. For example, the Richards retractor is more commonly used in orthopedic surgeries, and while the Balfour retractor is great for abdominal surgeries generally, it does not provide the same level of access or specific features suited for gynecological procedures. The Auvard retractor is typically used for vaginal surgeries and may not provide sufficient separation of the abdominal wall in a total abdominal hysterectomy setting. Thus, the O'Sullivan-O'Connor retractor is preferred for its design and functionality in this specific type of surgery.