Abstract: A hand-held retractor that is adapted for endoscopic use at a predetermined area of a patient. The retractor is comprised of a longitudinally-extending blade with a proximal end, a distal end, and a top surface. A handle is connected to the proximal end of the blade by a separating member, which is preferably arcuate. The separating member is configured to allow a surgeon direct access to and visualization of the area adjacent the top surface and distal end of the blade after positioning the distal end of the blade at the predetermined area. Also provided is a method of endoscopic retrosternal adhesiolysis which utilizes a retractor to provide access to and visualization of adhesions adjacent the cranial portion of a patient's sternum while retracting away and protecting underlying tissue.