It’s a matter of taste. Some like two prongs, others prefer one; some like their blades narrower while others choose the wider. We have both. In fact, we have all four. The latest medial glenoid retractors from Buxton retain their popular length and blade width options but their unident feature challenges the use of the word ‘fork’ as their most commonly applied pet name.

Misapplications aside, these instruments serve dutifully in any number of anterior capsule repairs. Work down to the capsule level and the prong sits firmly in the glenoid neck. Exert pressure medially and the subscapularis is effectively retracted. Incise the capsule and they can also be instrumental in keeping loose medial flaps out of the line of sight until repair has been completed. At 30 centimeters in overall length, the gracefully swept-back shaft places intrusive assistant’s hands comfortably out of view.

Of course, Buxton still carries the “Full Sour” or double pronged version of these levers in 15 mm and 22 mm widths. In fact, now all four Kölbel levers are available as a set to suit all tastes.

Humerus Areas, Vol. 2, No. 2