RI-000068 A type of surgical equipment called a Fritsch retractor, also called a Fritsch-Wangensteen retractor, is used to retract and hold back tissues during various surgical procedures. They bear the names of Swedish surgeon Orvar P. F. Wangensteen and American surgeon Richard H. Fritsch, respectively. The blade of a Fritsch retractor has a curved, spoon-like shape and is attached to a portable handle. To reduce tissue damage during retraction, the blade is typically smooth and non-traumatic. The blade’s curve makes it possible to introduce it into the surgical site and gently pull back tissues to allow for clear visibility and access to the underlying structures.