Scissors
The original concept of scissors date back all the way to ancient Egypt, around 1500 B.C.
Back then, as always, they have had the simple purpose to cut and shear through different forms of material.
They have been used in medical practices simply to cut through medical gaze or tape or even clothing if necessary.
Throughout history the basic shape of scissors have changed to what is commonly expected as a “correct” format:
The most common and modern use for scissors in medical practices are Trauma shears.
-these are used by paramedics to safely and quickly remove people’s clothing during an emergency situation.
Another modern use for scissors is when doing dissections. They are usually sterile scissors used to cut open a part of the cadaver when doing the dissection
While scissors have not impacted or changed much for the use of medical practices the shape and idea of functionality has impacted by creating two surgical instruments: Forceps, Retractors.
Retractors
By using the basic shape of scissors and more ancient practices of some hooked object to grasp or dig, the concept of retractors were created.
Eventually, with little development, Jan Mikulicz-Radecki’s invention of a hinged rib spreading retractor in 1904 began a quick advancement in the furthering of evolution of retractors. One such design was created by Enrique Finochietto. All forms of retractors since then have been based on his design.
Forceps
Forceps have also had their shape evolved from the form of the common scissor. Forceps are simply used to grasp something or hold something during surgery that is too small or delicate for human fingers.
Most often forceps used for surgical procedures are created out of high-grade carbon steel, this ensures they can continually be serialized.
