The 10 Common Medical Scissors and Their Functions

Medical scissors are indispensable tools in modern surgery, each designed to serve a specific purpose. In general, they are used to cut, dilate, or constrict body parts during medical interventions. From delicate procedures like brain surgeries to tough orthopedic tasks, the variety of Surgical scissors ensures precision and reliability. The basic design of a scissor is the same, but they differ in shape, design, size, and functionality. When choosing the right medical scissor, it is important to consider factors such as the type of tissue, the surgical area, and the precision required.

1.    Mayo Scissors

Mayo scissors are versatile medical tools available in both straight and curved designs. They are known as Surgical Suture scissors and the best medical scissors. Straight Mayo scissors have flat blades ideal for cutting near the surface of a wound. Curved Mayo scissors have a curved blade designed to cut thick tissues like mammary glands. Moreover, these scissors feature a unique rotational ability that facilitates deep penetration, making them well-suited for dissections.

2.    Stitch Removal Scissors

Stitch removal scissors are also known as suture removal scissors, specially designed to remove sutures without harming the underlying tissue. The blades are hooked to lift the suture precisely with minimal discomfort. They are slightly rotatable, thus, providing a clearer view.

3.    Micro Scissors

Micro scissors are spring-oriented scissors used for the microdissection of tissues.

They may be curved or straight. Some Micro scissors are bayonet-shaped, known as micro bayonet scissors. In addition, they offer enhanced visibility for users who want to see past their fingers during procedures.

4.    Pott’s Scissors

Pott’s medical scissors are fine, sharp scissors designed for use in cardiovascular and thoracic treatments. To facilitate precise cuts in deeper areas, they are generally angled at 25, 45, or 60 degrees. Their fine tips and angled design make them perfect for sensitive surgical tasks, such as incisions in the heart or brain. The sharp teeth ensure accurate cuts with minimal trauma to the surrounding tissues.

5.    Metzenbaum Scissors

Metzenbaum scissors are known for their long handles and short blades. They cut delicate body tissues with great precision and control. Most of the time, they are used in gynecological, urological, and cardiothoracic surgeries. They have long shanks and tips with blunt ends. The ergonomic design helps them to work in confined spaces for cutting sensitive tissues without damage. They are also known as tissue scissors or Metz scissors.

6.    Bandage Scissors

As the name suggests, these surgical scissors are used for wound care and management. They cut dressings, bandages, drapes, or clothing without causing injury to the skin. These scissors are angled and have two different types of blades: sharp and blunt. The sharp side of the blade cut through materials like gauze or fabric, while the blunt side is designed to prevent any accidental puncture. They are also used in cesarean sections during the delivery of the baby.

7.    Wire-Cutting Scissors

Wire-cutting scissors are designed to cut surgical wires during orthopedic interventions. The blades are strong and thick, making the scissors capable of cutting through tough materials. Some models have serrated edges for better grip and precision.

8.    Dissecting Scissors

Dressing scissors are the most common type of medical scissors that are used in every surgical procedure. They are also known as tissue dissectors. The size ranges from 8.5 to 12.5 cm in length. The tip of the scissors varies; it can be blunt or sharp. The sharp tip cut the tissues while the blunt tip separated them.

9.    Duck Scissors

Duck scissors, also known as Diethrich scissors, are curved medical scissors. They are small and sharp with angled blades. The handle has a stabilizing bar. The scissors can dilate or open a blocked blood vessel. They are named for their different shape, which resembles the beak of a duck.

10.           Uterine Scissors

These scissors are very long and heavy, designed for the treatment of hysterectomy. The blades are of two types: straight or curved. The straight blade is used for cutting sutures, while the curved blade is used for cutting tissues.

Caution

• The scissors should be regularly inspected for any kind of nick or burr.
• The screw should be tightened properly to prevent it from dropping into the wound.
•  The scissors with sharp pointed ends should be wrapped properly to avoid any kind of tissue damage.

Conclusion

Surgical scissors are indispensable tools, each designed differently to serve a specific purpose. Their variations in shape, size, and function allow surgeons to perform several medical procedures with ease and precision. By understanding the functions of these ten common medical scissors, healthcare professionals can enhance their operative efficiency and improve patient outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

For what purpose are Mayo scissors used?

Mayo scissors are used to cut thick tissues with a unique rotational capability for deeper penetration.

How do Bandage scissors prevent injury?

Bandage scissors have one blunt tip that slides under the bandage or clothing, preventing injury to the skin.

What is the difference between Stitch removal scissors and Stitch scissors?

There is no difference between Stitch removal scissors and stitch scissors. Both are used for the same purpose.

Why are duck scissors named so?

They are named for the shape of their blades, which resembles the beak of a duck.

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