Left-handed use of surgical instruments: improved function through understanding instrument design

Rebecca C. Bishop Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL

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 DVM, MS, DAVCS https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9660-732X
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.24.11.0717
Volume/Issue:
Volume 263: Issue 3
Received:
13 Nov 2024
|
Accepted:
10 Dec 2024
|
Online Publication Date:
08 Jan 2025
Open access
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Abstract

OBJECTIVE

To explain design features of scissors and surgical instruments that work against left-handed users and demonstrate how the user can adapt their technique for ambidextrous use of standard instruments.

ANIMALS

Any species.

METHODS

Standard instruments are designed for maximal efficiency with the use of a right-handed grip. A gripping motion results in pushing force from the thumb and pulling of the fingers toward the palm. Both scissor blades and hemostat/needle driver box locks are oriented such that these natural forces act to push the scissor blades against each other or open the box locks. Using standard scissors with a left-handed grip is less efficient and more likely to cause tissue trauma. To use a right-handed instrument with the left hand, the thumb must instead be pulled towards the palm. This is effective but less ergonomic and requires more conscious practice. Sharp, well-maintained scissors are essential to mitigate tissue trauma.

RESULTS

Understanding how pressure needs to be applied for opening of box locks and apposition of scissor blades results in improved efficiency of instrument use and precision of scissor cuts.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Left-handed people are often adept at adjusting to equipment optimized to right-handed users. However, learning surgical skills from right-handed surgeons can be frustrating, requiring individual trial and error. Understanding the design features of surgical instruments improves efficiency for left-handed users and facilitates teaching of left-handed trainees by right-handed surgeons.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE

To explain design features of scissors and surgical instruments that work against left-handed users and demonstrate how the user can adapt their technique for ambidextrous use of standard instruments.

ANIMALS

Any species.

METHODS

Standard instruments are designed for maximal efficiency with the use of a right-handed grip. A gripping motion results in pushing force from the thumb and pulling of the fingers toward the palm. Both scissor blades and hemostat/needle driver box locks are oriented such that these natural forces act to push the scissor blades against each other or open the box locks. Using standard scissors with a left-handed grip is less efficient and more likely to cause tissue trauma. To use a right-handed instrument with the left hand, the thumb must instead be pulled towards the palm. This is effective but less ergonomic and requires more conscious practice. Sharp, well-maintained scissors are essential to mitigate tissue trauma.

RESULTS

Understanding how pressure needs to be applied for opening of box locks and apposition of scissor blades results in improved efficiency of instrument use and precision of scissor cuts.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Left-handed people are often adept at adjusting to equipment optimized to right-handed users. However, learning surgical skills from right-handed surgeons can be frustrating, requiring individual trial and error. Understanding the design features of surgical instruments improves efficiency for left-handed users and facilitates teaching of left-handed trainees by right-handed surgeons.

Keywords: surgery; dexterity; needle drivers; surgical skill training; right-handed

Acknowledgments

The background music featured in this Technical Tutorial Video, titled “Once Again,” by Ben Tissot, was acquired from Bensound.com (license code FVDGG2ZKEKU1BZYU).

Disclosures

The author has nothing to disclose. No AI-assisted technologies were used in the generation of this abstract or video.

Funding

The author has nothing to disclose.

ORCID

R. C. Bishop https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9660-732X

References

  • 1.

    Kümmerle JM, Auer JA. Surgical instruments. In: Auer JA, Stick JA, Kümmerle JM, Prange T, eds. Equine Surgery. 5th ed. Elsevier/Saunders; 2019:184-198. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-48420-6.00011-9

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  • 2.

    Verwilghen D. Surgical techniques. In: Auer JA, Stick JA, Kümmerle JM, Prange T, eds. Equine Surgery. 5th ed. Elsevier/Saunders; 2019:198-213. doi:10.1016/B978-0-323-48420-6.00012-0

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Cover Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
Publication Date:
01 Mar 2025
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