A laparoscopic surgical retractor for use during a laparoscopic spinal procedure, includes an elongated sleeve member having proximal and distal end portions and defining a longitudinal opening therethrough and a valve assembly mounted to the proximal end portion of the elongated sleeve member for sealing a surgical instrument introduced within the longitudinal opening of the sleeve member. The distal end portion is configured for insertion at least partially into an intervertebral space between adjacent opposed vertebrae to distract the adjacent vertebrae. A method for inserting a fusion implant with the use of the retractor is also disclosed.