HOW TO EVALUATE QUALITY OF SURGICAL INSTRUMENTS?

08 January, 2019
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Categories: Surgical Instruments , Medical-Tools-Instruments , Dental Instruments Blog , Veterinary Blog

How to evaluate quality of surgical instruments?

Surgical instruments are specially designed tools to perform specific operation; some surgical instruments are designed for general use in surgery, while others are designed for a specific procedure or surgery.

As these are special tools, quality is one of the key factors whether purchasing new instruments, or merely evaluating you already own. An evaluation criterion is highly dependent on the product type and its functionality e.g. endoscopes functionality and quality should not be compared with hand tools such as scissors and forceps. However some general attributes need to consider when purchasing new instruments.

Raw Material
Raw material plays vital role in surgical instruments, high quality raw material instruments last longer without loosing their shape and functionality. Selection of raw material some depends on the intended function of the tool, e.g. Scissors cannot be manufactured in non-magnet stainless steel being soft.

Surface Finish
Surgical instruments surface is polished (matt finished, mirror polished) to prevent rusting and easy cleaning before and after use. When buying new instruments ensure surface and mechanical joints are clean, smooth and free from cracks and porous materials unless specifically required for the functionality of the instrument.

Ergonomically Design 
Surgical instruments should be easy to use, user-friendly and ergonomically designed.

Smooth Operation
Some surgical instruments are made of multi-parts; working of these instruments should be smooth, e.g. scissors should cut smoothly and forceps should grasp smoothly.

Passivation
Passivation is a process that prevents rusting; passivated instruments last longer without getting rust. Ask for passivated instruments when buying new.

Buying quality instruments benefits you many ways

  • Certified conformity
  • Instruments last longer with normal care
  • Do not get rusted quickly
  • Reduce repair/replacement cost
  • The instrument holds up over time
  • Pattern Consistency
  • Esthetic feel during use
  • Smooth Operation
  • Superior finish
  • Quality raw material
  • Optimal raw material
  • No manufacturing defects or flaws

And above all

  • Peace of mind

“Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.” (William A. Foster)