A dual-blade retractor comprising a handle having a first end and a second end, a first blade extending from the first end of the handle, a second blade extending from the second end of the handle, and an illumination assembly including (a) one or more first direct light sources provided on the first blade and (b) one or more second direct light sources provided on the second blade, wherein the dual-blade retractor is configured to house therein an internal power source for supplying energy to the one or more first and second direct light sources.