Surgical shears

Types of surgical shears

Surgical shears are handy in the surgery room and emergency medical technicians (EMT) use to make precise cuts in different materials. The specific kind of surgical scissors that will be used will depend on the following:

• The kind of material that needs to be cut
• The volume of cutting that needs to be done
• The need for safety during the cutting process

Broadly, surgical shears can be classified into the following categories:

• Trauma Shears: Trauma shears, also known as emergency shears, are designed for cutting clothing, bandages, or other materials quickly and safely. They have rounded tips to prevent injury and are often used in emergency situations to access wounds or injuries rapidly.
• Operating Scissors: Operating scissors are used in surgical procedures to cut tissue, sutures, or other materials. They come in various shapes and sizes and can have straight or curved blades, sharp or blunt tips, depending on the specific type of surgery and the surgeon's preference.
• Dissecting Scissors: Dissecting scissors are a type of surgical shear used for cutting and dissecting tissue during surgical procedures. They have fine, sharp blades and are used for precise cutting and dissection of tissue.
• Bandage Scissors: Bandage scissors, also known as dressing scissors, are used to cut and remove bandages or dressings. They have a blunt tip on one blade, which helps slide under bandages or clothing without causing injury to the patient.
• Metzenbaum Scissors: Metzenbaum scissors are fine, sharp-bladed scissors commonly used in surgical procedures for cutting and dissecting tissue. They have a long handle and shorter blades, making them suitable for precise cutting in deeper surgical sites.
• Tenotomy Scissors: Tenotomy scissors are small, pointed scissors with a slightly curved shape commonly used in tendon surgeries to cut or dissect tendon tissue. Their design allows for precise cutting and manipulation of tendon structures.
• Wire Scissors: Wire scissors are specialized surgical instruments used to cut wire, such as orthopedic pins or sutures. They have thicker, stronger blades and often a small notch on one blade to hold and cut wire efficiently.
• Curved Scissors: Curved scissors are used for cutting tissue or sutures in surgical procedures. They have curved blades to facilitate cutting in tight or curved anatomical areas.

How to choose surgical shears

There are many factors to consider when choosing surgical scissors for sale. Here are some essential tips to help buyers make the right choice.

• Function

  Each type of surgical shear has a specific function. Some are blunt-tipped to prevent accidental injury to patients. Others have angled blades that make it easier to cut tissue or sutures. Stocking various shears to meet the needs of surgical patients and medical professionals is vital.

• Quality and durability

  Opt for shears made with high-quality stainless steel. The blades should be sharp and smooth, and the joint should move freely without being too loose or too tight. The handle should be comfortable to hold and not too heavy or bulky. This is because many medical procedures take a long time, and comfortable tools make the process easier.

• Size and weight

  The size and weight of the surgical shear affect the cutting performance. Lighter shears are more comfortable to use for a long time, but they may be less durable. Heavier shears cut more quickly but can be tiring. Consider the size and weight of the shear in relation to the task. For example, cutting thick material may require a heavier shear.

• Handle design

  The handle design of the shear affects comfort and control. Some have contoured handles that fit the hand better, while others have straight handles. Some have textured grips that prevent slipping. Choose a handle design that feels comfortable and provides good control when cutting.

• Type of blade

  The type of blade affects the performance of the shear. Straight blades cut smoothly, while serrated blades grip the material better. Angled blades make it easier to see what they're cutting. Choose a blade type that suits the material and cutting motion.

• Brand reputation

  Consider the brand's reputation when choosing surgical scissors. Well-known companies produce quality shears that meet industry standards. Reading reviews from other customers can help determine the brand's quality, customer service, and delivery speed.

How to use and product safety

How to use

• Prepare the cutting area:

  Determine what needs to be cut and prepare the area by cleaning any debris around the fabric or tissue to ensure a safe, accurate cutting.

• Open the shears:

  Carefully open the surgical shears by gently pushing the handles apart. Do not force them open, as this could damage the spring mechanism.

• Position the blades:

  Bring the shears' tips to the cutting point, whether fabric, tissue, or sutures. Ensure the blades are flush against the material for a clean cut.

• Cut:

  Close the shears by squeezing the handles together. Use smooth, even pressure to cut through the material. Avoid jerking or twisting the shears, as this could damage the blades or affect cutting accuracy.

• Repeat as necessary:

  If multiple cuts are needed, repeat the opening and positioning steps for each one. Over time, the shears may require extra effort to close; this is normal and will loosen with use.

• Close and store:

  Once finished, close the shears and store them safely, such as in a protective case or sheath, to avoid dulling the blades or injury.

Product Safety

• Quality materials:

  High-quality surgical shears are made from durable stainless steel that resists rusting and corrosion over time. Low-grade metals can weaken and increase the risk of breakage.

• Flawless construction:

  Well-constructed shears have tightly aligned blades that meet evenly along the cutting edge. Misalignment can impair cutting ability and safety.

• Proper maintenance:

  Regular cleaning, sharpening, and oiling are essential to keep shears in optimal condition. Neglecting care leads to dullness, debris buildup, and potential damage.

• Safe handling:

  Shears should be handled carefully to avoid injury or harm. Proper opening, closing, and storage are all important parts of safe usage.

• Regular inspection:

  Users need to routinely check their shears for any signs of damage or wear that could affect safety. Such as blade dullness, loosening of screws, or bent tips. Any issues should be addressed immediately to ensure the tool remains safe for use.

Functions, features, and design of surgical shears

Function

• Cutting Tissue: The primary function of surgical shears is to cut human tissue with precision and control. The sharp, smooth edges of the blades allow surgeons to make incisions in skin, muscle, and other tissues during surgical procedures.
• Dissecting Tissue: Surgical shears can also be used to dissect tissue by cutting through layers without damaging blood vessels or nerves. The scissor-like action of the blades allows for careful separation of tissue for better visibility and access during surgery.
• Grasping and Holding Tissue: Many types of surgical shears have blade designs that enable them to grasp and hold tissue securely while cutting or dissecting. This function is important for controlling bleeding and preventing tissue trauma during surgery.

Feature

• Sharp Blades: Surgical shears have extremely sharp blades that can make clean cuts in tissue. The sharpness of the blades is essential for minimizing trauma to the tissue and promoting faster healing.
• Smooth Edges: The edges of the blades are smooth, which helps prevent dragging or tearing of tissue when cutting. Smooth edges are particularly important when cutting delicate or vascular tissue.
• Blunt Tips: Many surgical shears have blunt tips on their blades, which helps prevent accidental puncture or damage to underlying structures such as blood vessels, nerves, or organs during tissue dissection.
• Straight or Curved Blades: The shape of the blades can vary depending on the type of shear and its intended use. Straight blades are used for making precise incisions in skin, while curved blades facilitate cutting or dissecting tissue in tight or curved anatomical areas.

Design

• Ergonomic Handles: The handles of surgical shears are designed to provide a comfortable and secure grip for the surgeon or surgical assistant. This ergonomic design helps reduce hand fatigue and improve control during cutting or dissecting tissue.
• Locking Mechanism: Some surgical shears have a locking mechanism that keeps the blades closed when not in use for safety and storage purposes. The locking mechanism also provides added security when cutting tissue, as it prevents the blades from accidentally opening.
• Lightweight and Balanced: Surgical shears are typically lightweight and well-balanced, which allows for precise movements and control during surgery. The lightweight design also reduces hand fatigue for the surgeon or assistant.

Q&A

Q1. How do you clean and sterilize surgical shears?

A1. Clean the shears by removing debris with a soft cloth, warm water, and soap. Then, dry them and clean them with a sterilizing alcohol solution. Once cleaned, place them in a sterilizing machine and sterilize them to the desired extent.

Q2. What is the difference between surgical scissors and surgical shears?

A2. Surgical scissors have a smaller blade and can cut only fine objects. They cannot cut thicker items. On the other hand, surgical shears have larger blades and can cut a variety of items, including thick ones like bandages.

Q3. Can surgical shears be reused?

A3. Yes, but they must be adequately cleaned, sterilized, and stored in a safe place where they won't get damaged.

Q4. What material makes durable surgical shears?

A4. Surgical shears are usually made of stainless steel, which is a strong and durable material that can withstand a lot of pressure without getting damaged.

Q5. What are the most common types of surgical shears?

A5. The most common types of surgical shears are blunt-tipped, which are used to cut dressing and prevent injury to the patient; curved blades, which facilitate cutting in curved areas; and serrated blades, which provide a firm grip on slippery objects.