Force-indicating retractor device and methods of use

A surgical system, comprising:

• a disposable force sensor pod comprising a mounting feature and at least one of a load cell or a strain gauge;
• a computing system configured to be placed in electronic communication with the disposable force sensor pod and receive a force measurement from the disposable force sensor pod;
• and
• a distraction device comprising:
• a first member comprising an insertion end configured to be inserted between a first bone and a second bone of a joint, the insertion end comprising a cavity therein;
• a hinge rotatably coupled to the first member;
• a second member comprising a distal portion and a proximal portion, the second member rotatably coupled to the hinge at a position between the distal portion and the proximal portion, wherein the distal portion is configured to be received within the cavity of the insertion end and inserted between the first bone and the second bone when the insertion end is inserted therein;
• and
• a third member rotatably coupled to the hinge and manipulable to exert a force on the proximal portion of the second member that causes the distal portion to rotate about the hinge and away from the insertion end while the distal portion and the insertion end are inserted between the first bone and the second bone, thereby distracting the first bone from the second bone,
• wherein the proximal portion comprises a mount configured to receive the mounting feature to removably couple the disposable force sensor pod to the distraction device.