This invention is a hand-held retractor (10) that is adapted for endoscopic use at a predetermined area of a patient. The retractor (10) is comprised of a longitudinally extending blade (20) with a proximal end (28), a distal end (26) and a top surface (22). A handle (60) is connected to the proximal end (28) of the blade (20) by a separating member (50), which is preferably arcuate. The separating member (50) is configured to allow a surgeon direct access to, and visualization of, the area adjacent the top surface (22) and distal end (26) of the blade (20) after positioning the distal end (26) of the blade (20) at the predetermined area. Also provided is a method of endoscopic retro-sternal adhesiolysis which utilizes a retractor (10) to provide access to, and visualization of, adhesions adjacent the cranial portions of a patient's sternum while retracting away and protecting underlying tissue.
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