Which retractor should be available when the surgeon has made an incision for an anterior cervical discectomy?

The Cloward retractor is specifically designed for anterior cervical discectomy procedures, providing optimal exposure of the cervical spine during surgery. Its unique shape allows it to hold back soft tissues, such as the muscles and the trachea, without causing excessive trauma, facilitating better visualization of the surgical field. This is crucial in a cervical discectomy as the spinal cord, nerve roots, and vertebral arteries are closely located to the incision site, and maintaining a clear view is essential for safely removing herniated discs or osteophytes.

In contrast, other retractors like the Richardson and Deaver may be versatile in different types of surgeries but do not offer the same specialized design for the cervical region. The Bookwalter retractor, while useful for broader abdominal or thoracic surgeries, wouldn’t be practical for the confined and delicate area of the cervical spine, where precision is key. Therefore, having the Cloward retractor available ensures the surgeon can perform the procedure effectively and safely.