OR instruments

Over view

This presentation will provide an in-depth overview of the essential instruments

used in the operating room (OR) during surgical procedures. Understanding
these tools is crucial for ensuring successful operations and maintaining patient
safety.
 Introduction
Surgical instruments play a vital role in facilitating
surgeries. They enable surgeons to cut, grasp, retract,
and manage tissues with precision, ensuring that the
surgical process is safe and efficient. Each tool is
specifically designed to perform a particular function
in the procedure.
Lesson Objectives:
•To provide an in-depth understanding of the essential
instruments used in the operating room (OR) during surgical
procedures.
•To explain the various categories of surgical instruments and
their specific roles in surgeries.
•To highlight the importance of surgical instruments in ensuring
precision and safety during operations.
•To familiarize students with the function, design, and proper use
of key OR tools.
 Learning Objectives:
By the end of this lesson, learners will be able to:
● Identify and categorize different types of surgical instruments based
on their function.
● Describe the purpose and usage of specific surgical tools such as
scalpels, forceps, retractors, and laparoscopic instruments.
● Understand the importance of sterilization and safety practices in
handling surgical instruments.
● Explain how advancements in surgical instruments, like robotic
systems, have improved the safety and efficiency of surgeries.
● Demonstrate familiarity with diagnostic and electrosurgical
instruments used in modern surgeries.
Learner Needs

Learner Needs for the Lesson on OR Instruments

1. Basic Knowledge: Understanding of surgical procedures and medical terms.

2. Visual Aids: Clear images or videos of instruments in use.
3. Hands-on Experience: Opportunities to handle or observe the tools.
4. Safety: Knowledge of sterilization and handling to prevent infections.
5. Technical Skills: Ability to use instruments effectively in real-life settings.
6. Advanced Techniques: Additional instruction for laparoscopic or robotic surgery tools.
7. Critical Thinking: Knowing when and why to use specific instruments.
Categories of Surgical
Instruments
Surgical instruments are divided into
several categories based on their
function. These include cutting and
dissecting, grasping, clamping,
retracting, suctioning, and suturing
tools. Each category serves a unique
purpose and is critical to the success
of a surgery.
 Cutting Instruments

Cutting instruments are essential

for making incisions and dissecting
tissues. These tools, such as
scalpels and scissors, allow
surgeons to perform precise cuts
with minimal damage to
surrounding tissues.
Scalpels
Scalpels are one of the most commonly used
instruments in surgery. They come in various types,
including disposable and reusable. The sharp blade
allows for precise incisions in tissues, making them
indispensable in the operating room.
Surgical Scissors

Surgical scissors are used to cut tissues, sutures, and materials.

Different types, such as Mayo and Metzenbaum scissors, are
designed for specific tasks, such as cutting thick or delicate
tissues.
Grasping and Holding Instruments

Grasping instruments, such as forceps and clamps, are

used to hold tissues and organs during surgery.
These tools allow surgeons to manipulate tissues
without causing damage, providing better control
during the procedure.
Forceps

Forceps are versatile instruments used for holding or grasping tissues.

They come in various designs, including thumb forceps and tissue
forceps, each tailored for specific tasks like handling delicate or dense
tissues.
Surgical Clamps

Clamps are used to control bleeding by compressing blood vessels or

tissues. Hemostatic clamps, like the Kelly and Crile clamps, help
surgeons stop bleeding and maintain a clear surgical field.
Retracting Instruments

Retractors are used to hold back tissues and organs, providing better visibility
and access to the surgical site. They come in various types, including handheld
and self-retaining retractors, each with specific applications.
Handheld
Retractors
Handheld retractors, such as the
Deaver and Richardson
retractors, require an assistant
to hold them in place. They are
commonly used to retract
organs or tissues during
abdominal and chest surgeries.
Self-Retaining Retractors
Self-retaining retractors, like the Weitlaner and
Gelpi retractors, are designed to stay open on
their own, freeing the surgeon’s hands. These
are often used in orthopedic and neurological
surgeries.
Suctioning Instruments

Suction devices help remove blood, fluids, and

debris from the surgical field. Maintaining a clear
view is crucial during surgery, and instruments like
the Yankauer and Poole suction tips are designed
to achieve this.
 Diagnostic
Instruments

Diagnostic instruments are used during

surgery to examine internal organs and
tissues. Tools like endoscopes and ultrasound
probes allow surgeons to see inside the body
without large incisions, providing vital
information for decision-making.
Surgical Safety Instruments

Safety in surgery is paramount, and instruments like safety

scalpels and surgical sponges help reduce risks. Regular
surgical counts and the use of specialized safety tools are
important to avoid complications, such as retained instruments.
Sterilization of Surgical Instruments

Sterilizing surgical instruments is critical in preventing infections. Proper

cleaning and sterilization ensure that all instruments are free from harmful

bacteria and viruses, maintaining a sterile environment for surgery.

 Advances in Surgical
Instruments
Modern advancements in surgical instruments have improved the
efficiency and safety of surgeries. Innovations such as robotic
instruments and enhanced imaging technologies are
revolutionizing the way surgeries are performed.
 Conclusion
In conclusion, OR instruments are essential for performing safe and
successful surgeries. Each tool has a specific purpose and
contributes to the overall efficiency of the surgical procedure.
Understanding their functions and uses is vital for any medical
professional.
Assessment
● 1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
● Objective: Test knowledge on the functions and categories of surgical instruments.
● Sample Questions:
○ Which instrument is primarily used for making incisions in tissues?
■ a) Forceps
■ b) Retractors
■ c) Scalpel
■ d) Suction device
○ What is the primary use of hemostatic clamps in surgery?
■ a) Cutting tissue
■ b) Holding organs
■ c) Controlling bleeding
■ d) Suctioning fluids
● 2. Short Answer Questions:
● Objective: Assess the learner's ability to explain key concepts in their
own words.
● Sample Questions:
○ Describe the difference between handheld and self-retaining
retractors.
○ How does electrosurgical equipment improve surgical precision
and safety?