Surgical Scissors

The majority surgical scissors are shaped with various blade definitions Depending on the surgical specialty and material being cut. The 3 different blade definitions are...

Stainless Blades - The most common is the surgical scissors with stainless steel blades. Not only the blade, but the whole scissors themselves are made out of the same metal (stainless steel) and there are no distinct ring colors.

Tungsten Carbide Blades - Inserted only along the cutting surfaces of the blade is the metal tungsten carbide (A.K.A TC). These metal strips are much rougher than stainless steel. When sharpened, this type of surgical scissor blades stay more sharp for a longer period of time and are put on the scissor by welding or vacuum brazing. When these blades have been sharpened down, they can't be replaced. You can tell whenever you see tungsten carbide by the rings on the design.

Black Handled Surgical scissors - This type of surgical scissors is referred to as "super cut scissors" or "micro grind" inthe industry. The sharpening practice that is used to make these medical instruments is what makes it truly unique. This scissor will "knife" through whatever you will bring to it. Most other types of surgical scissors will crush the tissue as a result cutting it, but the black handled one just simply slices the tissue. Black handled surgical scissors require special sharpening methods using special surgical equipment This should be repeated nearly at least 3 times a year. It is easy to spot these surgical scissors due the fact that they have black colored rings.

Gold Handled surgical scissors have cutting blades made of tungsten carbide. Becuase its rough and more harder, TC stay sharper longer. Before you do tray assembly you should inspect the blades for cracks. If you see a crack, get rid of the surgical scissor from the set and send it back to the manufacturer for warranty replacement.


Looking for hospital equipment or possibly forceps? Than come by HNM medical online now!

A surgical scissors Explained editorial is by Paul T.