A Guide to Sharpening and Maintaining Veterinary Scissors

Veterinary scissors are a critical tool in veterinary procedures. They need to be sharp, precise, and well-maintained to ensure clean cuts and minimise tissue trauma. Over time, regular use dulls their edges, affecting their performance. Proper sharpening and maintenance extend their lifespan and maintain surgical precision. This guide will walk you through the best practices for sharpening and maintaining surgical scissors used in veterinary settings.

Understanding Surgical Scissors

Surgical scissors come in various shapes and sizes, designed for specific procedures. Common types include:

• Mayo Scissors – Used for cutting tough tissue.
• Metzenbaum Scissors – Designed for delicate tissue dissection.
• Iris Scissors – Small, sharp, and used for fine, detailed cuts.
• Suture Scissors – Specialised for cutting sutures efficiently.

Each type requires different handling and sharpening techniques, making maintenance essential to preserve their functionality.

Signs That Surgical Scissors Need Sharpening

Using dull scissors can lead to incomplete cuts, increased surgical time, and more strain on the surgeon’s hands. Here are signs your scissors need sharpening:

• Tearing Instead of Cutting – If the scissors are pulling or tearing tissue instead of making a clean incision, the blades are likely dull.
• Increased Force Needed – A sharp pair of scissors should cut with minimal effort.
• Visible Nicks or Burrs – Inspect the blades for any irregularities that affect their smooth cutting action.
• Misalignment – Blades that are not closing properly can impact their cutting ability.

How to Sharpen Surgical Scissors

Sharpening surgical scissors is a delicate task that requires precision. There are two primary methods: manual sharpening and professional sharpening.

Manual Sharpening with a Whetstone or Sharpening Rod

For minor touch-ups, manual sharpening can be done using a fine-grit whetstone or ceramic sharpening rod. Follow these steps:

• Clean the Scissors – Ensure the scissors are free of debris and organic matter before sharpening.
• Disassemble if Possible – Some scissors can be taken apart for more precise sharpening.
• Sharpen the Cutting Edge – Hold the sharpening tool at a 30-45 degree angle against the blade edge. Use gentle strokes, moving in one direction along the cutting surface.
• Check Sharpness – After a few passes, test the sharpness by cutting through gauze or tissue paper.
• Reassemble and Sterilise – Once sharp, sterilise the scissors before use.

Professional Sharpening Services

For optimal results, it’s best to have surgical scissors professionally sharpened by experts. Professional services use precision equipment such as:

• Honing Wheels – Used for refining and polishing the cutting edge.
• Laser Sharpening – Ensures high accuracy and longevity of the sharp edge.
• Diamond-Coated Grinding Discs – Provide consistent sharpening without damaging the metal.

Veterinary professionals should have their surgical scissors professionally sharpened at least once or twice a year, depending on usage.

Maintaining Surgical Scissors

Apart from sharpening, regular maintenance ensures that surgical scissors remain in peak condition. Follow these key maintenance steps:

Proper Cleaning and Sterilisation

• Immediate Rinsing – After use, rinse scissors in warm water to remove organic material.
• Ultrasonic Cleaning – Place the scissors in an ultrasonic cleaner with an appropriate enzymatic solution.
• Manual Cleaning – Use a soft brush to clean hinge areas and serrated edges.
• Autoclaving – Always follow manufacturer guidelines for sterilisation.

Lubrication

• Apply a medical-grade lubricant to the pivot joint to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
• Avoid over-lubrication, as excess oil can attract debris.

Proper Storage

• Store scissors in a dry, sterile environment.
• Use instrument trays or racks to prevent unnecessary blade contact, which can dull the edges.
• Keep scissors separate from other instruments to avoid damage.

Regular Inspections

• Check for misalignment, loose screws, or worn-out blades.
• Conduct a cut test using gauze or a fine material to ensure sharpness.
• Replace damaged or heavily worn scissors to maintain surgical efficiency.