COMMON SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS be hand-
held or self-
SCALPEL: Used for initial incision and cutting retaining via
tissue. Consists of a blade and a handle. a ratcheting
Surgeons often refer to the instrument by mechanism.
its blade number.
SCISSORS: Used for cutting tissue, suture, or
for dissection. Scissors can be straight or
curved, and may be used for cutting heavy
or finer structures.
FORCEPS: Also known as nonlocking
forceps, grasping forceps, thumb forceps, or
pick-ups. Used for grasping tissue or
objects. Can be toothed (serrated) or
nontoothed at the tip.
CLAMPS: Also called locking forceps, these
are ratcheted instruments used to hold
tissue or objects, or provide hemostasis.
Can be traumatic or atraumatic.
NEEDLES & SUTURE: Needles come in many
shapes and cutting edges for various
applications. Suture can be absorbable, non
absorbable, and is available in different
sizes.
RETRACTORS: In varying forms, retractors are
used to hold an incision open, hold back tissues
or other objects to maintain a clear surgical
field, or reach other structures. They can either
UROLOGIC SURGERY: Minimally invasive
cystoscopic equipment is frequently used for
both visualization and performing procedures.
SUCTION: Suction tips, combined with a suction
source, help to remove debris and fluid from
the surgical field. It can also be used to clear
surgical smoke.
STAPLERS AND CLIPS: Used for reanastomosis
of viscera, vessel ligation, and excision of
specimens. Can be one-time use, reloadable,
manual, or electronically powered. Staples
come in multiple sizes.
ENERGY SYSTEMS: Broad term used to describe
various methods of cutting tissue or sealing
vessels. May use electricity or sonic waves.
Available in open or laparoscopic forms
LAPAROSCOPIC-INSTRUMENTS:
Many instruments are similar to those used in
open surgery, adapted to fit through narrow
ports placed through the skin. Laparoscopic
work is then conducted via the ports.
SPECIAL SURGICAL CONSIDERATIONS
CARDIOTHORACICSURGERY: Cardiopulmonary
bypass, bronchoscopy, and equipment for
minimally invasive thoracic procedures are
frequently encountered.
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY: Joint
replacements and other procedures
require specialized equipment.
ROBOTASSISTED SURGERY: Increasingly
used for procedures in urology, gynecology,
endocrine surgery, and other specialties.
