A loading unit for a circular stapling device includes a shell member, a staple pusher assembly operably disposed within the shell member, a knife pusher assembly operably disposed within the shell member, a trocar assembly operably disposed within the shell member, and a tissue retraction assembly disposed within the shell member between the knife pusher assembly and the trocar assembly. The shell member includes an elongate tubular portion. The trocar assembly includes a trocar member movable from an advance position and a retracted position. The tissue retraction assembly includes a tissue retractor.