How to Read a Surgical Instrument Catalogue

Instrument catalogues use a compact vocabulary. This guide explains the terms you will meet most often, so that you can compare offers from different manufacturers and suppliers on a like-for-like basis.

Pattern

The pattern is the design name of the instrument, such as Metzenbaum scissors or Mayo-Hegar needle holder. Two instruments with the same pattern name from different makers should share the same basic design, but details such as weight, finish and jaw profile can differ.

Length

Length is normally given as the overall length in centimetres, often with the inch equivalent. Many patterns are offered in several lengths, and the length is part of the product specification you should quote when requesting a price.

Shape and tips

Catalogues specify whether the working end is straight, curved or angled, and describe the tips: blunt or sharp points on scissors, serrated or smooth jaws on forceps and clamps, and teeth configurations such as 1×2 teeth on tissue forceps. See examples on the Forceps, Scissors and Clamps pages.

Locks and handles

Clamps and needle holders usually close with a ratchet lock. Handles may be ring handles, spring handles or flat handles, depending on the pattern. Needle holders are often offered with tungsten carbide jaw inserts, which many catalogues mark with gold-coloured handles.

Material and finish

Reusable hand instruments are commonly made of stainless steel; some fine and microsurgical instruments are made of titanium. Finish is described as satin or matte (reduced glare) or mirror-polished. Ask the manufacturer which material grade and standards apply to a specific product.

Reusable or single-use

Catalogues usually separate reusable instruments from single-use (disposable) versions. Reprocessing instructions and sterilisation compatibility are provided by the manufacturer and should be requested for reusable instruments.

Before you order

Confirm the pattern, length, shape, tip and finish in writing, ask for the product code used in the manufacturer’s catalogue, and request documentation on quality management and regulatory status for your market. Our guide on checking a supplier lists further questions.