Surgical forceps are essential tools used in medical procedures across all specialties. Their main purpose is to grasp, hold, or manipulate tissues and other objects during surgery or clinical care. These instruments come in many shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific use. From general surgery to highly specialized procedures, surgical forceps play an important role in ensuring precision and safety. Among the commonly used types are Adson dressing forceps and uterine dressing forceps, each with unique designs and functions. Understanding the different types of surgical forceps helps medical professionals choose the right tool for every procedure.

Basic Classification of Surgical Forceps

Surgical forceps are usually classified based on their function. There are two broad categories: tissue forceps and dressing forceps. Tissue forceps are used to hold or manipulate body tissues, while dressing forceps are used to handle medical materials like bandages or gauze. Some forceps are toothed to give a firm grip on tissue, while others have smooth tips to avoid damage.

Forceps can also be grouped based on how they are operated. Some are thumb forceps, which look like tweezers and require pressure between the thumb and fingers to work. Others are locking forceps, which resemble scissors and can be clamped in place. These are often used when the tool needs to hold something without continuous hand pressure.

Adson Dressing Forceps

Adson dressing forceps are a specific type of thumb forceps used mostly for holding dressing materials and handling delicate tissues. They are widely used in minor surgical procedures, wound care, and even cosmetic surgery. These forceps have a short, flat handle and a narrow tip with fine serrations, which allows for a secure grip without damaging the skin or tissue.

Their lightweight design and precision make them ideal for working in small or tight areas. Many healthcare professionals rely on Adson dressing forceps during suturing, cleaning wounds, or applying bandages. Their popularity comes from their versatility and ease of use in a variety of clinical settings.

Uterine Dressing Forceps

Uterine dressing forceps are longer and specially designed for use in gynecological procedures. They are used to insert or remove dressings from the uterus, apply medications, or assist during internal examinations. The tips of these forceps are often rounded or spoon-shaped to avoid injury when working inside the uterus.

These forceps are used in many common procedures such as dilation and curettage (D&C), postpartum care, or during intrauterine device (IUD) placement. The length and design of uterine dressing forceps allow doctors to reach deep areas safely while maintaining control. Their use helps improve both comfort and outcomes for patients undergoing gynecological treatments.

Tissue Forceps

Tissue forceps are used to grip and hold body tissues during surgery. Some have teeth on the tips to prevent slipping, which is useful when handling tougher tissue. These forceps are especially important during operations where surgeons need to hold tissue out of the way or bring it closer for stitching or cutting.

Some types of tissue forceps include toothed forceps for gripping skin or muscle, and non-toothed forceps for more delicate tissues like blood vessels or internal organs. The forceps are chosen based on the type of tissue and the need for a strong or gentle grip. Using the wrong type can damage tissues, so it’s important to select the proper tool.

Dressing Forceps

Dressing forceps are different from tissue forceps in that they are mainly used to handle materials rather than tissue. These include cotton balls, gauze, and surgical sponges. They are commonly found in wound care kits and surgical packs. Their smooth tips help prevent damage to delicate materials and reduce the risk of injury when cleaning a wound.

Adson dressing forceps fall under this category but are often used in tissue handling as well. Their small, accurate grip makes them suitable for both functions. Dressing forceps are found in nearly every area of medicine, from surgery rooms to outpatient clinics, because they are useful in so many different ways.

Hemostatic Forceps

Hemostatic forceps are locking instruments used to control bleeding during surgery. They clamp blood vessels to stop bleeding until the surgeon can tie them off or cauterize them. These forceps come with a ratchet mechanism that locks the tool in place so that it can hold on its own.

They are available in different lengths and shapes, such as straight or curved. Their design helps surgeons work in areas that are hard to reach. While these forceps do not include Adson dressing forceps or uterine dressing forceps, they are just as essential in most surgical settings.

Thumb Forceps

Thumb forceps are operated like tweezers. They do not have a locking mechanism and are controlled entirely by the hand. They are most useful when the surgeon needs quick, temporary control of tissue or material. Adson dressing forceps are a good example of this type.

These forceps are often included in both surgical kits and emergency supplies because of their simplicity and ease of use. Their grip strength depends on the skill of the user, and they allow for fast manipulation of tissues during surgery.

Locking Forceps

Locking forceps, also known as clamps, are designed to be locked in a closed position once they grip something. They are ideal for clamping vessels, securing tissues, or holding instruments in place. Their ability to stay locked without hand pressure makes them helpful during long or complex surgeries.

These forceps come in many styles, and each is suited to a different task. Some are used to hold surgical towels in place, while others help with dissection or tissue separation. Though Adson dressing forceps and uterine dressing forceps are not locking forceps, they are often used in conjunction with them during surgical procedures.

Specialized Forceps for Various Fields

Different areas of medicine require forceps designed for specific needs. In dentistry, small forceps are used to remove debris or hold materials inside the mouth. In ophthalmology, very fine forceps are used to handle the delicate structures of the eye. In gynecology, uterine dressing forceps are the tool of choice for accessing the uterus safely and effectively.

Surgeons rely on different forceps during an operation depending on the task at hand. Having the right tool can make a big difference in the outcome. Tools like Adson dressing forceps are perfect for skin and superficial work, while longer forceps such as uterine dressing forceps are made for deeper and more sensitive areas.

Conclusion

Surgical forceps are a vital part of any medical or surgical procedure. They come in many forms, each with its own purpose and design. Whether it’s the fine grip of Adson dressing forceps or the extended reach of uterine dressing forceps, each type plays a unique role in delivering safe and effective patient care.

Understanding the types of surgical forceps allows medical professionals to select the right tool for the right job. With the right forceps, procedures become more efficient, patients experience less discomfort, and outcomes improve. These tools may seem simple, but their value in healthcare is enormous and lasting.
More info: Artema Medical