SURGICAL STAINLESS STEEL BALFOUR RETRACTOR CENTER BLADE REMOVABLE ABDOMINAL VALVE (c. 1950s–1970s)
|
PRICE: £18
A specialized mid-to-late 20th-century surgical instrument component, identifying as the deep central bladder/abdominal blade from a standard Balfour retractor system. Made entirely from high-grade, surgical-quality stainless steel, this robust piece was designed to withstand repeated autoclave sterilization. The apparatus consists of a wide, smooth, and heavily curved lateral spatula blade (measuring 7.5cm to 8.5cm in width) engineered to gently but firmly hold back visceral organs or the abdominal wall during major laparotomy procedures. The blade extends into a central shaft characterized by a long, open tracking slot between two parallel steel bars. The terminal end features a specialized anchoring handle assembly composed of two open finger-loops (arcs de cercle) topped by a pivoting steel retention wire bale (l'anse). This ingenious mechanism allowed the theatre assistant to slide the blade onto the main transverse Balfour frame and lock it securely under tension. The numeral "11" is cleanly stamped alongside a microscopic, square maker's mark cartouche on both profiles of the frame. Condition: Offered in excellent, clean vintage condition. The stainless steel retains its satin clinical finish with only minor surface micro-scratches from historical handling. The locking bale operates smoothly, and the curved blade is perfectly smooth, free from pitting, rust, or structural distortion. Dimensions:
Please note: This historical surgical instrument is sold strictly as a decorative, educational, and collectable object for display. It is completely obsolete and is not intended or certified for any modern medical, veterinary, or practical clinical surgery. Shipping Information:
|
|
|
|
|
