Needle holders are also named needle drivers or needle forceps. These specialized forceps typically comprise jaws and handles with hinged joints. Most of the needle holders have ring handles and a ratchet locking mechanism. The jaws of needle holders are generally shorter in length as compared to their handles. These are available in a variety of sizes and designs and are chosen based on the user's requirements. Some of the designs have tungsten-carbide inserts on the tips of the instrument.

Function

A needle holder is used by surgeons for suturing purposes during surgical operations such as ligation, wound closure, and re-anastomosis. It is used by surgeons to have a firm grip on the needle by clamping it precisely, getting maximum hold, and pushing the needle with a fine grip.

Characteristics and uses

Allows surgeons to have a firm grip over the needle used for suturing purposes

Needle holders have specialized devices to keep the needle in place during surgeries and prevent it from slipping.

Allows surgeons and doctors to have better access to surgical sites that are difficult to reach

Protects surgeons/doctors from pricking their finger or hands

Needle holders containing tungsten carbide inserts have a longer life span and are generally more durable as compared to the standard stainless steel needle holder.

Care and handling

Needle holders are delicate instruments that require special care and handling.

• There must be strict avoidance of mechanical deformation of the needle.
• The needle holder has to be changed if it gets blunt.
• They should only be used for stapling and holding needles and for no other purpose
• They must be properly cleaned and sterilized before using