I recently read a Chinese paper in Frontiers in Oncology (2025, DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1709974) on transoral surgery, where the authors include intraoperative images showing a mouth gag / retractor system that I do not recognize.
The paper does not describe this retractor in the Methods section, beyond stating the use of standard exposure devices. Therefore, I am trying to identify whether this is:
• A locally manufactured or modified retractor
• A regional (Asian-market) device not commonly distributed in Europe/US (no CE Mark or FDA approved)
• Or a variant of an existing system that I’m simply unfamiliar with (unlikely…)
From visual analysis only (not from the paper), the main features are:
- Midline frame
- Central screw-based vertical opening
- Adjustable blade length, which clearly differentiates it from Dingman-type gags
- Self-retaining, with a chest suspension
In the context of transoral robotic and endoscopic surgery, this immediately raises the question of exposure systems beyond what is currently commercially available. To my knowledge, in Europe we essentially have access only to LARS 2.2 as a modern alternative designed with robotic workflows in mind. Most gags are adaptations of the FK, which is no longer available. Morieniere´s retractor has some drawbacks I have already commented about.
Has anyone:
• Seen this retractor before?
• Used something similar in Asia or elsewhere?
• Know whether this is commercially available or purely institutional?
Any insights would be greatly appreciated.
J Granell. Jan 28, 2026
