What are suture scissors?

Suture scissors, also known as surgical scissors, are specialized instruments designed for cutting sutures, delicate tissues, and dressings during surgical procedures. These scissors are commonly used in various medical settings, including surgery, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.

Suture scissors feature sharp, pointed blades that are typically made of high-quality stainless steel. The pointed tips provide precision when dissecting and excising tissues. The blades are also designed to minimize trauma and prevent tissue damage during delicate surgical maneuvers.

Suture scissors come in different sizes and variations depending on their intended use. Some common types of suture scissors include:

1. Iris Scissors: These are small and delicate with short and slightly curved blades. Iris scissors are ideal for precise cutting in ophthalmic procedures and microsurgeries.

2. Metzenbaum Scissors: Metzenbaum scissors feature longer, curved blades that are slightly blunt. They are commonly used for cutting sutures and delicate tissues in various surgical procedures.

3. Mayo Scissors: Mayo scissors have longer and straight blades with blunt tips. They are commonly used for cutting sutures and dressings, as well as dissecting tissues.

4. Halsted Mosquito Scissors: Halsted Mosquito scissors have short, curved blades with a small serrated section near the tips. They are designed for grasping and cutting fine tissues and small vessels during delicate surgeries.

5. Stevens Tenaculum Scissors: These scissors have a pointed blade on one side and a blunt hook on the other side. They are often used for grasping and cutting tissues in otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat surgeries).

Proper handling and care of suture scissors are crucial to ensure their precision and longevity. They should be kept sharp, cleaned, and sterilized according to the guidelines provided by the manufacturer.

Suture scissors are an essential instrument in the hands of surgeons, dentists, and other medical professionals, enabling them to perform precise cutting and dissection tasks during various medical procedures.