One exemplary aspect comprises an illuminated surgical retractor that comprises a blade portion having a top surface and a bottom surface, and having a proximal end and a distal end, the blade portion comprising an operative portion at the distal end, a saddle portion at the proximal end, and a barrel portion connecting the operative portion and the saddle portion; a handle portion connected to the saddle portion; and an illumination assembly. Other aspects will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims.