Double-angled palatal needle holder: An innovative instrument for cleft surgeries

Abstract

Introduction: The devices used for cleft surgeries are different from the routine plastic surgical ones. The currently available needle holders for palatal surgeries do not address many issues like poor visibility and excessive strain for the surgeon's dominant hand. We present an innovative needle holder which could alleviate these problems. Materials and Methods: The new needle holder was inspired from the design of a Magill forceps. It was modified to a needle holder and later on the angles were adjusted for using in palatoplasty surgery. Results: The final device had following advantages: Surgeon's hands are outside the target visual field and no blind spots or shadows in the field, surgeon's wrists, elbows and shoulders were in a more comfortable position while operating from the head end. Conclusion: The double angle needle holder was really useful for oral surgeries especially palatoplasty. The position of the surgeon's hands was more comfortable; they had better visibility and was easier to maneuver.