A recent study, supported by the US Department of Defense, has highlighted the Titan CSR from Texas-based Advanced Surgical Retractor Systems as the leading surgical retraction tool for forward-deployed military medical teams. Surgical retractors are critical in providing surgeons with clear access to organs or tissue during operations, particularly in trauma and abdominal surgeries.
The Titan CSR underwent thorough evaluations alongside other prominent retractor solutions, with metrics focusing on factors such as surgical exposure, usability, portability, and adaptability for damage control surgery in challenging, austere environments. The findings were impressive; the Titan CSR yielded the largest surgical exposure area, receiving a commendable rating of 4.9 out of 5 from surgeons. Additionally, it was noted for its quick assembly and deployment, outperforming competing retractors that often require a table attachment, which may be absent in combat hospitals.
The device earned the highest ratings overall in setup, adaptability, stability, and effectiveness, further confirming its superiority in field conditions. Weighing only 2.2 pounds (998 grams) and constructed from high-strength titanium, the Titan CSR boasts a modular design that allows for assembly in under a minute. It is compatible with commonly available blades and optional lighting, making it a versatile choice for medical teams.
Currently, the Titan CSR is in active use within US military hospitals, special operations teams, and deployed medical units, demonstrating efficient performance in both austere and high-pressure scenarios. These findings were presented at the Military Health System convention in a paper titled “Comparison of Self-Retaining Retractor Systems for Use in Forward-Deployed Surgical Teams.”
Dr. Mylea Echazarreta Cristner, who led this significant research project, was honored with the Military Health System 2025 Young Investigator Award for these advancements, underscoring the study’s impact on improving surgical outcomes in military healthcare.
