New Flexible Arthroscopic Retractor
by Bruce Levy, MD
Arthrex recently released the new Flexible Arthroscopy Retractor
(FAR) for knee surgery.
I designed the FAR with Arthrex to allow better exposure
at the base of the PCL facet for tibial tunnel/socket placement when performing
PCL reconstruction or PCL avulsion repair. I found that exposure to this area
was always difficult; not only to visualize the area but I also had fear of
getting too close to the neuro-vascular bundle. We wanted to create something
that could be inserted and removed easily and would help surgeons better see
this tricky area.
The FAR is made from flexible, tear-resistant
polyurethane. This is the same material used to protect the 2.4 guide pins and
spade tip guide pins. After a series of trial and error with sizes and shapes, we
found a reproducible device that met all the goals mentioned above.
I was pretty excited the first time I tried the actual
device. It was easy to insert and remove, gave me excellent exposure to the PCL
facet, and the water pressure from the pump kept the FAR expanded, thus moving
the posterior capsule away from the surgical field. Although not designed to
protect neuro-vascular injury, I have to say it made me feel better having the
FAR in place.
To place it, you simply pinch the tip with a snap and
insert it into the knee either through a PM portal or any anterior portal. It
is then manipulated to the back of the knee at the base of the PCL facet. To
remove, simply pull on the suture and it will easily come out any portal.
I have found the FAR to be extremely instrumental for PCL
surgery and hope other surgeons will find this advancement just as helpful.
