Surgical Scissors

For surgeons, the right surgical scissors are an extension of their skill. At Henry Schein, we understand the critical role these instruments play in achieving optimal outcomes. That's why we offer a comprehensive selection of high-quality surgical scissors designed to meet the diverse needs of today's healthcare professionals.

Selecting the Right Surgical Scissors: A Buyer's Guide for Medical Professionals

Surgical scissors are a fundamental tool in any operating room, used for a wide range of procedures. Choosing the right pair requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure optimal performance, patient comfort, and surgeon satisfaction. Here's a guide to help you navigate the selection process:

1. Scissors Type:

• Purpose: Match the scissor type to the intended procedure. Popular options include:
  • Mayo Scissors: Versatile for general cutting, dissection, and suturing.
  • Metzenbaum Scissors: Angled blades for deeper dissection and cutting around curves.
  • Iris Scissors: Delicate, sharp blades for precise dissection and tissue manipulation in microsurgery.
  • Lister Bandage Scissors: Blunt tips for safe and efficient dressing removal.
• Blade Length and Curvature: Consider the size and depth of the surgical field. Longer blades offer better reach, while shorter blades provide greater control. Curved blades enhance access in tight spaces.

2. Material and Quality:

• Durability: High-quality stainless steel ensures lasting sharpness, corrosion resistance, and ease of cleaning and sterilization.
• Weight and Balance: A balanced and lightweight design minimizes hand fatigue during prolonged procedures.
• Finger Ring Size: Choose comfortable finger rings that fit securely without impeding maneuverability.

3. Functionality and Ergonomics:

• Sharpness: Sharp blades deliver clean cuts, minimizing tissue damage and promoting faster healing.
• Spring Tension: Adjustable spring tension allows for fine control over cutting resistance.
• Handle Design: Look for ergonomic handles that provide a secure and comfortable grip, reducing hand strain.
• Locking Mechanism: Scissors with a locking mechanism can be helpful for specific procedures.

An Overview of Common Surgical Scissors

Surgical scissors come in various designs, each suited for specific tasks and offering unique advantages. Here's a closer look at some of the most common types:

Mayo Scissors:

A versatile workhorse for general surgery, Mayo scissors feature straight or slightly curved blades with blunt or serrated tips. The blunt tips minimize accidental tissue puncture, while serrated tips enhance gripping power for grasping sutures or fascia.

Mayo scissors are ideal for:

• Cutting tissue
• Dissecting structures
• Debridement
• Suturing

Metzenbaum Scissors

Recognizable by their angled blades, Metzenbaum scissors excel at deep dissection and maneuvering around curves. The angled design allows for improved visibility and access in tight surgical fields.

Metzenbaum scissors are commonly used for:

• Deep dissection of soft tissue and muscle
• Separating tissue planes
• Aponeurotomy (cutting through the tough fascial layer)

Iris Scissors:

Designed for intricate microsurgery, Iris scissors boast delicate, sharp blades and small finger rings. Their precise cutting ability minimizes tissue damage and bleeding in delicate procedures.

Iris scissors are ideal for:

• Microsurgical dissection
• Eye surgery • Suture removal
• Nerve isolation

Lister Bandage Scissors:

Safety is paramount when removing dressings. Lister bandage scissors feature blunt tips that prevent accidental skin puncture while efficiently cutting through bandages and gauze.

These scissors are essential for:

• Safe and efficient dressing removal
• Cast removal