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Surgical Instruments: Identification, Uses & Sterilization (Items 46-65)
46. Self-Retaining Retractor
Identification: A mechanical retractor with two or more blades attached to a ratcheted frame. Once opened, it holds itself in place without manual assistance. Common types include Balfour (abdominal), Weitlaner, and Gelpi retractors.
Uses:
- Holds incision edges apart during surgery, freeing the surgeon's hands
- Used in abdominal, orthopaedic, urological, and spinal surgeries
- Maintains exposure of the operative field (e.g., holds the deltopectoral interval open during shoulder surgery, or retracts abdominal wall in laparotomy)
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C for 3-4 min or 121°C for 15 min). All joints and ratchets must be opened during autoclaving to allow steam penetration.
47. Bone Drill Machine
Identification: A motorized (electric or pneumatic) hand-held drill with interchangeable drill bits and Kirschner wire (K-wire) attachments. May be cordless or corded.
Uses:
- Drilling holes in bone for screw placement, internal fixation of fractures
- Intraosseous access (proximal tibia/humerus) when IV access fails
- Creating pilot holes for pins, plates, and prosthetics in orthopaedic surgery
Sterilization: Autoclave-compatible models are steam sterilized (134°C). Battery-powered handpieces may require flash sterilization. Follow manufacturer's guidelines as electronics may need to be removed before autoclaving.
48. Bone Cutter
Identification: A scissor-like or rongeur-type instrument with strong, angled cutting jaws made of hardened stainless steel. Used in small and large bone surgery (also called bone-cutting forceps).
Uses:
- Cutting or trimming small bones and cartilage
- Removing bony spurs or fragments
- Performing osteotomies (e.g., percutaneous distal metatarsal osteotomy - DMMO)
- Used alongside osteotomes, rongeurs, and small curettes in small-bone surgery
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C). Joints must be unlocked before autoclaving. Ultrasonic cleaning prior to sterilization removes bone fragments from jaws.
49. Gigli (Giggly) Saw
Identification: A flexible wire saw with two ring handles at either end. The wire has serrated/twisted cutting edges that cut on both push and pull strokes. Passed around bone using a guide or curved forceps.
Uses:
- Cutting bone in areas inaccessible to rigid saws (e.g., ilium at the sciatic notch in pelvic osteotomy - Salter procedure)
- Tibial and fibular osteotomies
- Division of the symphysis pubis in hemipelvectomy
- Craniotomy
- Amputation procedures
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (single-use in many modern settings). If reusable, autoclave at 134°C. Wire saws may be disposable due to difficulty cleaning serrations.
50. Scoop (Bone Scoop / Scoop Stretcher)
As a surgical instrument (Bone Scoop):
Identification: A spoon-shaped curette or scoop with a hollow bowl used to remove tissue or bone debris from cavities.
Uses:
- Scooping out infected bone, sequestra, or granulation tissue
- Evacuating bone marrow contents or cyst material
As patient transport equipment (Scoop Stretcher):
Identification: A split-litter device that separates longitudinally into two halves to slide under a patient without logrolling.
Uses:
- Moving trauma patients with suspected spinal injuries
- Field immobilization - causes less spinal motion than conventional log roll
Sterilization (surgical scoop): Steam autoclave. Scoop stretcher: Wipe down with hospital-grade disinfectant (e.g., Cidex/glutaraldehyde or quaternary ammonium compounds).
51. Periosteum Elevator (Periosteal Elevator)
Identification: A flat, spatula-like instrument with a slightly curved, beveled end. Typically has a round or flat handle. Common types: Freer, Cobb, and Langenbeck elevators.
Uses:
- Stripping periosteum from bone surface to expose bone during orthopaedic, ENT, and maxillofacial surgery
- Subperiosteal dissection in hip, tibial, spinal, and orbital surgery
- Elevating soft tissue flaps from bone for implant or plate placement
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C). Ultrasonic cleaning recommended before sterilization to remove periosteal debris from the blade tip.
52. Magill (Maggler) Forceps
Identification: Angled ring-handled stainless steel forceps with a distinctive ~90-degree mid-shaft bend and serrated, fenestrated tips. Available in infant, child, and adult sizes.
Uses:
- Guiding a nasotracheal tube from the oropharynx through the vocal cords under direct laryngoscopy
- Removing foreign bodies (e.g., coins at the cricopharyngeus, esophageal foreign bodies) from the airway or pharynx
- Placing nasogastric tubes or oropharyngeal packs during head and neck surgery
- The angled design keeps handles outside the mouth while tips reach deep into the oropharynx, preserving the glottic view
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C). Fully autoclave-compatible. High-level disinfection with glutaraldehyde (Cidex) is an alternative.
53. Endotracheal Tubes (ETT) - Various Sizes
Identification: Flexible hollow plastic (PVC) tubes with an inflatable cuff near the distal end. Sizes range from 2.5 mm (neonates) to 9.0 mm internal diameter (large adults). Each has a Murphy eye (side hole at the tip) and a pilot balloon.
Uses:
- Securing the airway during general anesthesia
- Mechanical ventilation in ICU patients
- Protecting the airway from aspiration
- Laser airway surgery (use laser-resistant tubes with saline-filled cuffs; avoid nitrous oxide which supports combustion)
Sterilization: Single-use disposable (most modern ETTs). Reusable types: high-level disinfection with glutaraldehyde or ethylene oxide gas sterilization (NOT steam autoclave - PVC is heat-sensitive).
54. High Pressure Autoclave
Identification: A large sealed chamber that uses pressurized saturated steam to sterilize instruments. Essentially a sophisticated pressure cooker with precise temperature/pressure controls.
Uses:
- The gold standard method of sterilization for heat-stable surgical instruments
- Destroys all microorganisms including bacterial spores by protein denaturation
- Gravity-displacement type: 121°C at 15 psi for 30 min
- Pre-vacuum (high-pressure) type: 132-134°C at higher pressure for 3-4 min
- WHO guidelines for prion decontamination: steam sterilization at 132°C for ≥30 min
Sterilization of the autoclave itself: Regular maintenance, cleaning of chamber, and biological indicator (spore) testing to verify efficacy.
55. Fumigator
Identification: A device that disperses chemical vapors (formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, or hydrogen peroxide vapor) into a sealed room or cabinet to decontaminate surfaces.
Uses:
- Terminal disinfection of operating theatres, isolation rooms, and laminar flow areas
- Decontaminating rooms after infectious cases (tuberculosis, COVID-19)
- Sterilizing heat-sensitive equipment that cannot be autoclaved
Method: Formaldehyde fumigation (now being replaced by hydrogen peroxide vapor fumigation which is faster and less toxic). Room must be sealed for 6-12 hours, then thoroughly ventilated before use.
Sterilization of the device: Wipe external surfaces with disinfectant. Internal components cleaned per manufacturer's instructions.
56. Refrigerator (Medical/Blood Bank Refrigerator)
Identification: Temperature-controlled refrigerator maintaining 2-8°C, distinct from domestic refrigerators. Often labeled and dedicated.
Uses:
- Storing blood and blood products (red cells: 2-6°C, platelets: 20-24°C with agitation)
- Storing vaccines, insulin, certain IV medications, tissue grafts, and biopsy specimens
- Short-term storage of organ transplants
Sterilization/Maintenance: Not sterilized; cleaned with 70% isopropyl alcohol or hospital-grade disinfectant. Regular defrosting, temperature logging, and calibration.
57. Nitrous Oxide (N₂O) Cylinder
Identification: A blue-colored pressurized gas cylinder containing nitrous oxide. Connected via regulator to anesthesia machines.
Uses:
- Analgesic and anesthetic agent ("laughing gas") - provides sedation and analgesia during procedures
- Carrier gas in anesthesia (typically 50-70% N₂O with O₂ and volatile anesthetic)
- Cryosurgery: powers cryoprobe units for dermatological procedures
- Caution: Supports combustion - must NOT be used during laser airway surgery; expands gas-filled cavities (contraindicated in pneumothorax, bowel obstruction, middle ear surgery)
Sterilization: Cylinders are not sterilized. Connectors and regulators: wipe with 70% alcohol. Cryoprobes connected to N₂O must be cleaned and sterilized with Cidex or autoclave between patients.
58. Hydraulic Operation Table
Identification: A surgical table with hydraulic or electric mechanisms allowing height adjustment, tilting (Trendelenburg/reverse Trendelenburg), lateral tilt, and leg/arm positioning. Has radiolucent sections for intraoperative imaging.
Uses:
- Positioning patients during surgery for optimal access and safety
- Trendelenburg position: pelvic/lower abdominal surgery, improving venous return
- Lithotomy position: urological and gynaecological procedures
- Lateral decubitus: thoracic and hip surgery
- Allows fluoroscopy/X-ray without moving the patient
Sterilization/Cleaning: Not sterilized. Cleaned with hospital-grade disinfectant after each case. Mattress covers are replaced or disinfected. Hydraulic components maintained per manufacturer's protocol.
59. Anaesthesia Trolley / Boyle's Apparatus
Identification: A wheeled trolley housing the anesthesia machine (Boyle's apparatus) with flowmeters, vaporizers for volatile agents, a ventilator, breathing circuits, gas cylinders (O₂, N₂O, air), and drawers for drugs and airway equipment.
Uses:
- Delivering and controlling general anesthesia
- Monitoring respiratory parameters (tidal volume, airway pressure, FiO₂)
- Houses all drugs, syringes, endotracheal tubes, and airway devices for the anesthesiologist
- The Boyle-Davis gag (part of ENT setup on the trolley) maintains mouth opening during tonsil/adenoid surgery
Sterilization/Maintenance: Breathing circuits and reusable components (masks, valves) are autoclaved or high-level disinfected. The machine frame is wiped with disinfectant. Vaporizers and flow meters undergo specialized servicing.
60. Gabriel Syringe
Identification: A large-capacity (20-60 mL) metal or plastic syringe with a long angled nozzle/cannula, specifically designed for rectal or proctological use.
Uses:
- Injecting sclerosing agents (e.g., 5% phenol in almond oil) for injection treatment of haemorrhoids (piles)
- Administering rectal medications or enemas
- Proctoscopy-guided injections into haemorrhoidal tissue
- Named after Peter Proctor Gabriel, a pioneer in haemorrhoid treatment
Sterilization: Metal Gabriel syringes: steam autoclave. Disposable versions: single-use. Reusable components: ultrasonic cleaning followed by autoclave.
61. Stretcher with Trolley
Identification: A wheeled patient transport device with a padded platform at bed height. May include side rails, IV poles, and adjustable backrests.
Uses:
- Transporting patients within the hospital (ward to OT, radiology, ICU)
- Transferring patients after procedures while monitoring continues
- Emergency transport and primary survey
- The scoop stretcher variant separates longitudinally for spinal injury patients
Sterilization/Cleaning: Non-sterile equipment. Cleaned and disinfected with hospital-grade surface disinfectant after each use. Mattress covers changed or disinfected per infection control policy.
62. Non-Mercury Sphygmomanometer (BP Apparatus)
Identification: A blood pressure measuring device using an aneroid gauge (dial) or electronic sensor in place of the traditional mercury column. Consists of an inflatable arm cuff, tubing, a bulb pump with valve, and a pressure gauge.
Uses:
- Measuring arterial blood pressure (systolic and diastolic)
- Perioperative monitoring, ward rounds, outpatient assessments
- Replaced mercury models due to toxicity concerns
- Automated oscillometric versions are most common now in hospitals
Sterilization/Cleaning: Not sterilized. Cuffs wiped with 70% alcohol or quaternary ammonium wipes between patients. Cuffs can be laundered or replaced. Calibration checked periodically against a reference standard.
63. Doyen's Retractor
Identification: A broad, flat, spatula-shaped retractor with a slightly curved blade and a long handle. The blade has smooth edges. Used as a hand-held or self-retaining device in abdominal/pelvic surgery.
Uses:
- Retracting the bladder during lower segment caesarean section (LSCS) - most classic use
- Retraction of abdominal viscera during pelvic surgery (hysterectomy, myomectomy)
- Protecting the bladder flap while the uterine incision is made
- ENT: Doyen mouth prop - holds mouth open during oral surgery
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C). Soak in enzymatic cleaner, rinse, then autoclave. All surface areas should be accessible to steam.
64. Green Armitage (Armytage) Forceps
Identification: A large crushing clamp/forceps with wide, flat, serrated blades and ring handles with a ratchet lock. The blades are broad and fenestrated for tissue compression.
Uses:
- Clamping the edges of the uterine incision after delivery of the baby during caesarean section - primary use
- Controls bleeding from the uterine incision edges (hemostasis)
- Improves visibility of the surgical field while uterus is repaired
- Can be used to grasp other thick vascular tissues in general and vascular surgery
- Essential obstetric/gynaecological instrument for hemorrhage control
Sterilization: Steam autoclave (134°C). Must be unlocked/open during sterilization. Pre-clean with enzymatic solution to remove blood and tissue from serrations.
65. Sterilizer
Identification: A general term for any device used to achieve sterilization. In the OT context, refers to a bench-top steam sterilizer, dry heat sterilizer, or chemical sterilizer.
Types and Uses:
| Type | Temperature | Time | Best For |
|---|
| Steam autoclave | 134°C | 3-4 min | Metal instruments, drapes, gloves |
| Gravity-displacement | 121°C | 15-30 min | Porous loads, liquids |
| Dry heat oven | 160-180°C | 1-2 hr | Glassware, oils, powders |
| Chemical (Cidex) | Room temp | 10 hr (sterilization) | Heat-sensitive scopes |
| Ethylene oxide (EtO) | Low temp | Hours | Plastics, electronics, ETT |
Sterilization of the sterilizer: Internal chamber cleaned regularly. Biological indicator (Geobacillus stearothermophilus spores) used weekly/each load to confirm efficacy. Chemical indicators (autoclave tape) used on every pack.
Quick Reference: Sterilization Summary
| Instrument | Sterilization Method |
|---|
| Self-Retaining Retractor | Steam autoclave 134°C |
| Bone Drill Machine | Autoclave (parts); follow manufacturer |
| Bone Cutter | Steam autoclave + ultrasonic pre-clean |
| Gigli Saw | Autoclave or single-use disposable |
| Scoop (surgical) | Steam autoclave |
| Periosteal Elevator | Steam autoclave |
| Magill Forceps | Steam autoclave |
| Endotracheal Tube | Single-use / EtO gas |
| High Pressure Autoclave | Biological indicator testing |
| Fumigator | External wipe; H₂O₂ self-sterilizing cycles |
| Refrigerator | 70% IPA wipe-down |
| N₂O Cylinder | Non-sterile; connectors wiped with alcohol |
| Hydraulic OT Table | Hospital-grade disinfectant wipe |
| Boyle's Apparatus | Circuit autoclave; machine surface wipe |
| Gabriel Syringe | Steam autoclave |
| Stretcher/Trolley | Surface disinfectant |
| Non-Mercury BP Cuff | Alcohol wipe; launder cuff |
| Doyen's Retractor | Steam autoclave 134°C |
| Green Armitage Forceps | Steam autoclave 134°C |
| Sterilizer | Biological indicator; chamber cleaning |
Sources: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics 15th Ed, Morgan & Mikhail's Clinical Anesthesiology 7e, Roberts & Hedges' Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine, Medical Microbiology 9e, Sherris & Ryan's Medical Microbiology 8e, Miller's Anesthesia 10e, Gray's Anatomy for Students,
Magill forceps - Wikipedia,
Green Armytage Forceps guide.