What is the proper name for the retractor often referred to as a Sweetheart retractor used in abdominal surgery?

The proper name for the retractor often referred to as a Sweetheart retractor used in abdominal surgery is the Harrington retractor. This particular retractor is designed to provide optimal exposure of the abdominal cavity by allowing the surgeon to retract tissue without excessive force, minimizing trauma to surrounding structures. The unique design of the Harrington retractor features a curved blade that conforms to the contours of the abdomen, making it effective in holding back organs and soft tissues.

In contrast, the other options represent different types of retractors that have their own specific uses. The malleable retractor is flexible and can be bent to fit various surgical sites, but it does not have the specific design associated with the Sweetheart retractor. The Balfour retractor is a self-retaining device typically used in laparotomies, while the Richardson retractor has a more directional shape for retracting the abdominal wall. Thus, the Harrington is the most accurate answer in this context.