When introduced more than twenty years ago, the Kölbel Retractor quickly became the centerpiece of many shoulder repair kits. Since its introduction, expansion of blade options has made this system even more attractive.

Blades for the Kölbel are distinguished by their rotund protuberance. They balloon a full 20 mm from the central axis of their hub before beginning the return sweep to their line of origin. Those who purchased their Kölbel Retractors in the late '80's were offered pairs of 36 mm wide blades in 36 mm and 53 mm depths. In the early '90's, 68 mm deep blades were added to enhance their use on large and muscular patients. Since then Buxton introduced 20 mm wide blades to further increase the versatility of the entire system. These narrow blades are helpful in the early stages of traditional open repairs, and in small incision procedures with suture anchors. A full complement of six narrow blades may be purchased at some savings by ordering the Blade Upgrade Kit (24-6119).

To Stretch a Buck or Two
1. While blades may be used in pairs, they are often lost or damaged as single units. In response to ever-tighter fiscal restraints, Buxton has discontinued the practice of only selling blades in matched sets and now offers them individually.

2. Developing a new retractor system that shares accessory components with preexisting retractors makes a lot of sense and wins us favor among administrators in healthcare facilities already strapped with ever tightening budgets.

The Shoulder, Vol. 1, No. 2