Whenever it comes to choosing an instrument for gynecological procedures, medical professionals look for ovum forceps. The primary reason is that ovum forceps have atraumatic grasping jaws and do not have a ratchet lock mechanism, which indicates what they do. These instruments are designed with cup-shaped jaws that assist with the extraction of delicate, fragile tissues from the uterus without causing damage. This combination of precise grip and control helps achieve successful surgical outcomes.
This guide explains what ovum forceps are, their anatomy, their primary function in various gynecological procedures, their types, and how to choose high-quality ovum forceps.
What are Ovum Forceps?
Ovum forceps, also known as ovum holding forceps, are surgical instruments designed with fenestrated, spoon-shaped tips and are primarily used to grasp, hold, and withdraw fragile tissues from the uterine cavity. This is possible only when the surgical team ensures correct insertion of ovum forceps into the dilated cervix without exerting excessive pressure. These instruments help extract retained placental fragments from the afterbirth and retained products of conception after a miscarriage (OBG instrument notes). Furthermore, a gentle rotating technique is recommended to extract a retained ovum or placenta, which is carried out with ovum forceps.
Complications to be aware of:
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Uterine perforation
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Incomplete evacuation
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Hemorrhage
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Not suitable for placenta accreta
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Cervical laceration
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Infection
Anatomy of Ovum Forceps
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Ratchetless Handle: Unlike the sponge-holding forceps or hemostats, the ovum forceps have no locking mechanism. For this reason, the surgeon can feel the grip pressure and release it instantly. This automatically reduces the risk of uterine perforation (NPrep, NORCET 2021; UNFPA specification).
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Cup, spoon-shaped jaws: Securely hold the fragile tissue while preventing the risk of crushing or tearing of retained products.
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Transverse serrations: Offer a non-slip grip on slippery uterine contents for removal.
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Long shanks: The overall length of the instrument lets the jaws reach the uterine cavity through the dilated cervix while the hand stays outside of the vagina for safety.
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Box or screw joint: The stability of the box joint helps maintain the opening and closing movement of the jaws smoothly.
Ovum Forceps Uses in GYN Surgeries
In many gynecological procedures, the primary function of ovum forceps is to remove tissue from the uterine cavity. This is useful to solve different surgical problems.
Incomplete and inevitable miscarriage
In an incomplete and inevitable miscarriage, the cervix is open, and the tissue may get stuck in the cervical opening. These remaining tissues in the cervical canal can cause heavy bleeding, cramps, and in some cases, a sudden cervical shock.
Furthermore, long grasping forceps, such as ovum or sponge-holding forceps, are among the instruments that help remove the visible tissue from the cervical canal. This can relieve pain and reduce bleeding (Johns Hopkins OBGYN 101; Primary Care Notebook).
Evacuation of Retained Products of Conception (ERPC)
The evacuation of retained products of conception (ERPC) surgery is mainly performed to remove the remaining placenta, dead tissue, and fetal remnants from the uterus after miscarriage or birth. Surgeons dilate the neck of the womb and empty the uterus with suction. This is where ovum forceps help with the removal of the large fragments.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP)
The medical termination of pregnancy can be carried out with medication or a procedure. In the first trimester, mainly between 10 and 12 weeks, removal is done through vacuum aspiration. However, in some scenarios, large tissue pieces cannot be removed through suction. In these cases, ovum forceps are used as a supporting instrument to help extract the larger pieces of tissue separately for a smooth procedure.
Second-Trimester Dilation and Evacuation (D&E)
After the 13th week, the pregnancy tissue is too large and too developed to be removed using suction alone. Dilation and evacuation (D&E) is the method that surgeons use for uterine evacuation in the second trimester. Moreover, ovum forceps with heavier patterns are required to perform the surgery. The Sopher and Bierer forceps are recommended for it.
Types of Ovum Forceps
The following are different types of ovum forceps that medical professionals can use during different gynecological surgeries.
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McClintock Ovum Forceps
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Heywood-Smith Ovum Forceps
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Standard Ovum Forceps
How to Choose High-Quality Ovum Forceps
When choosing high-quality ovum forceps, different factors are considered to perform various functions in the operating theatre. The following is the checklist for buying high-quality tools.
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Check for surgical-grade stainless steel quality meeting ISO and other international standards.
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Make sure the jaw alignment is correct, with no gap or overlap.
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Instruments with a satin or matte finish are a must for smooth surfaces.
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The open and close movement of the joint action must be smooth.
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Ask and check for quality certification from the manufacturer.
Looking for Ovum Forceps?
At Acheron Instruments, we manufacture high-quality gynecological instruments, including ovum forceps that meet international standards. Explore our range of forceps to consider more options for surgery. You can request a quote with the patterns and sizes you need.
If you are looking to build a complete tray for gynecological procedures, you can read our gynecologist tools to start the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the sizes available for Ovum forceps?
The Ovum forceps are available in multiple sizes to suit different procedures and gestational ages. For example, the Sopher forceps are almost 11 inches long; on the other hand, the Bierer forceps are 13 inches long.
What materials are used to manufacture the Ovum forceps?
We offer Ovum forceps made from high-grade German stainless steel, designed to enhance your skills and streamline your procedures.
Who can use Ovum forceps?
The Ovum forceps are primarily used by gynecologists, obstetricians, and trained clinicians who offer miscarriage and post-abortion care.
Conclusion
Ovum holding forceps are simple, long, hinged, non-locking forceps that surgeons use to remove the placenta and remaining fetal tissues inside the uterus following an incomplete miscarriage or abortion. Their oval or cup-shaped fenestrated blade and no ratchet lock are the main players that help in performing various GYN surgeries. You should invest in the best quality gynecological tools, as such procedures are delicate and there is no room for any compromise on quality. Acheron Instruments is your go-to manufacturer for this matter; contact our team today.
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