What are the most commonly used surgical instruments?

Common surgical instruments enable a surgical team to cut tissue, control bleeding, expose the operative field, manipulate anatomical structures, remove fluids, and close an incision. The specific instruments required depend on the procedure, surgical approach, and tissue involved.

Frequently used instruments include:
• Scalpels and surgical blades for making incisions
• Mayo and Metzenbaum scissors for cutting tissue or surgical materials
• Dressing and tissue forceps for handling dressings or anatomical structures
• Kelly, Crile, and mosquito clamps for controlling blood vessels
• Allis and Babcock forceps for holding different tissue types
• Handheld and self-retaining retractors for maintaining surgical exposure
• Mayo-Hegar needle holders for handling suture needles
• Yankauer and Frazier suction instruments for removing fluids
• Electrosurgical pencils and forceps for cutting or coagulating tissue

Instrument selection must reflect tissue characteristics and the intended clinical function. Fine, atraumatic instruments are generally required for delicate vessels or organs, while dense tissue and bone require stronger designs.

Before use, surgical teams inspect reusable instruments for alignment, sharpness, corrosion, joint movement, insulation integrity, and general mechanical function. Instruments that appear similar should not be treated as interchangeable unless their intended uses and technical specifications correspond.