Surgical scissors

Surgical Scissors

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Surgical scissors used in medical procedures.

Surgical scissors are specialized surgical instruments used for cutting and dissecting tissues during surgical procedures. They are essential tools in the operating room and are designed to perform precise cutting tasks with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues.

Types of Surgical Scissors

Surgical scissors come in various shapes and sizes, each designed for specific surgical tasks. The main types include:

Mayo Scissors

Mayo scissors are commonly used for cutting thick tissues.

Mayo scissors are heavy-duty scissors used for cutting tough tissues such as fascia and muscle. They have a semi-blunt tip and are available in both straight and curved varieties. The straight version is typically used for surface cutting, while the curved version is used for deeper tissue dissection.

Metzenbaum Scissors

Metzenbaum scissors are lighter and more delicate than Mayo scissors, designed for cutting delicate tissues. They are longer with a finer tip, making them ideal for precise dissection in plastic surgery and other procedures requiring meticulous cutting.

Iris Scissors

Iris scissors are small, sharp scissors used for fine dissection and cutting of delicate tissues. They are commonly used in ophthalmic surgery and other procedures requiring precision.

Bandage Scissors

Bandage scissors, also known as "nurse's scissors," have a blunt tip on the bottom blade to safely lift bandages away from the skin for cutting. They are used to remove dressings and bandages without causing injury to the patient.

Materials and Design

Surgical scissors are typically made from high-grade stainless steel to ensure durability and resistance to corrosion. Some scissors are coated with tungsten carbide to enhance their cutting performance and longevity. The design of surgical scissors includes ergonomic handles to provide comfort and control during use.

Sterilization and Maintenance

Proper sterilization and maintenance of surgical scissors are crucial to prevent infection and ensure their longevity. Scissors must be thoroughly cleaned and sterilized after each use, following hospital protocols. Regular maintenance includes sharpening and checking for any signs of wear or damage.

Usage in Surgery

Surgical scissors are used in a wide range of procedures, from minor outpatient surgery to complex cardiothoracic surgery. Surgeons select the appropriate type of scissors based on the specific requirements of the procedure and the tissues involved.

Related Pages

• Surgical instruments
• Operating room
• Sterilization (microbiology)
• Plastic surgery
• Ophthalmic surgery