Surgical Instrument Identification & Care Flashcards

What material is most commonly used in the manufacturing of surgical instruments?

Answer: Stainless steel (typically 300 and 400 series)

300-series stainless steel (corrosion-resistant) and 400-series (hardened for cutting edges) are the most common surgical instrument materials.

What is the purpose of passivation of stainless steel instruments?

Answer: To create a protective chromium oxide layer that resists corrosion

Passivation forms a chromium oxide layer on stainless steel surfaces, protecting against corrosion and staining during reprocessing.

What type of forceps has platform tips used to grasp delicate tissue without crushing?

Answer: DeBakey forceps

DeBakey forceps have a multi-row serrated platform tip that grips tissue securely with minimal trauma, commonly used in vascular and cardiovascular surgery.

Why should dissimilar metals never be combined in the same sterilization load?

Answer: Galvanic corrosion can occur when dissimilar metals contact each other in steam sterilization

When dissimilar metals are in contact in the presence of moisture and heat, galvanic corrosion can occur, damaging instrument surfaces and reducing lifespan.

What is the function of a 'ratchet' on locking surgical instruments such as clamps?

Answer: To lock the instrument at a set clamping pressure without requiring continuous hand pressure

The ratchet mechanism locks locking instruments (clamps, needle holders) at a set position, allowing the surgeon to release hand pressure while maintaining grip.

Which instrument is specifically designed to cut and ligate tissue simultaneously?

Answer: Ligating and dividing stapler (LDS)

A ligating and dividing stapler simultaneously applies two rows of staples and cuts between them, ligating and dividing tissue in one motion.