Surgical Instrumentation

Abstract

Endoscopic surgical instruments are designed to have the same functions as traditional open surgical instruments and thus are simply modifications of the basic instrument categories, including forceps, scissors, tissue retractors, and needle holders. Instruments for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) consist of the same basic parts as traditional instruments. Instrument jaws come in a variety of shapes and sizes according to their intended function as graspers, dissectors, scissors, retractors, biopsy forceps, or needle holders. Laparoscopic forceps can be divided into three categories: grasping forceps, dissecting forceps, and biopsy forceps. Biopsy forceps are available as cup biopsy forceps and as punch biopsy forceps. Different methods of suturing for advanced laparoscopic and thoracoscopic procedures include extracorporeal knot tying, intracorporeal knot tying, and intracorporeal suturing. All instrument packs for MIS should include traditional open surgical instruments for the securing of drapes and initial port entry.