Achieving adequate exposure is essential to the proper performance of lateral bulla osteotomy and debridement. Maintaining a dissection as close to the aural cartilages as possible helps avoid iatrogenic damage to the surrounding structures. In most cases, especially in broad headed breeds such as Shar Peis and Staffordshire Bull Terriers, this will mean working down a narrow and surprisingly deep corridor.
Following the suggestion from Pieter Nelissen of Dick White Referrals, we have developed a purpose made TECA Retractor based on our small gelpis. The 40mm long legs are at 80˚ to the handles to reach deep into the hole created. The cross-over tips are only 3mm across when closed enabling insertion with no edges protruding to snag tissues.