Oplight Technology Summary

This illuminated retractor combines a conventional self retaining retractor with the addition of an in-built cold light source.  The purpose of this ‘Cold Light’ Illuminated Retractor is to provide surgeons with a light source which directly illuminates the interior cavity of an incision during surgery while the retractor holds open the incision.  Ultimately this provides two functions in a single device.  The device is a Class IIa medical device (sterile).

Typically surgeons will illuminate the operating field using overhead lamps, headlamps, fibre optic cables or even on some occasions a torch has been used.  The preferred method is a fibre optic cable attached to a retraction system.  This is neither ergonomic nor optimal as the light produces shadows within the cavity and may not reach the deepest areas. Also, fibre optic cable can impede the free movement of staff around the operating table.  The aim of the Oplight technology is to simplify the necessary equipment and improve illumination of the surgical site. 

The retractor design and development is almost complete; it is made from biocompatible plastic and uses LED technology to illuminate the surgical cavity.  The Oplight will be a disposable/single patient use device thereby eliminating any possibility of cross contamination.  The light source has a controllable On/Off switch with up to 4 hours of illumination possible. 

Summary of Product Advantages

• Surgeons are provided with a fixed light source, positioned to illuminate deep into the incision cavity. 
• The positioning of the light source reduces the level of shadowing. 
• Surgeons are provided with a purpose built product which improves the surgical environment, Oplight eliminates the need for hazardous fibre optic cables, heavy and bulky head gear or retractor systems.
• Patients will receive treatment within an improved surgical environment.
• The retractor is a single use device which reduces the risk of cross contamination between patients. 
• Features on the ‘paddles’ provide superior anchoring on the tissue which should reduce movement and slippage of the device in situ.

Critical Suppliers

Fearsomengine Ltd,

752-756 Argyle Street, Glasgow, G3 8UJ

Tel: 0141 248 3224

www.fearsomengine.com

EUROPLAZ TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED

Unit 1, The Maltings Industrial Estate,

Southminster, Essex, CM0 7EH

Tel: 01621 773471

Andersen Caledonia Ltd

Phoenix Crescent

Strathclyde Business Park

Bellshill

ML4 3NJ

Tel: 01698 844476

Design LED Products

Alba Innovation Centre

Livingston

EH54 7GA, UK

Tel: 01506 592310, Fax. +44 (0)1506 592311