Surgical scissors are among the most frequently used instruments in any clinical setting — yet with dozens of patterns, blade configurations, and handle styles available, selecting the right pair is not always straightforward. This guide walks through the key variables so you can match the instrument to the task.
Why Scissor Selection Matters
Using the wrong scissors for a procedure increases the risk of tissue trauma, instrument fatigue, and poor outcomes. A fine iris scissor used for heavy tissue dissection will blunt rapidly; a heavy Mayo scissor used for delicate suture cutting will lack the precision needed. Getting the match right protects both the patient and the instrument.
The Main Types of Surgical Scissors
Mayo Scissors
Mayo scissors are heavy-duty dissecting scissors designed for cutting dense tissue, fascia, and sutures. They are available in straight and curved patterns. Straight Mayos are typically used for cutting sutures; curved Mayos for dissecting deeper tissue planes. Their robust construction makes them a staple of general surgical and orthopaedic trays.
Metzenbaum Scissors
Metzenbaum scissors are fine dissecting scissors with a longer handle-to-blade ratio, designed for delicate tissue dissection. They are not intended for cutting sutures — doing so will damage the blades. Available in straight and curved patterns, they are widely used in general surgery, gynaecology, and plastic surgery.
Iris Scissors
Originally designed for ophthalmic surgery, iris scissors are small, fine-pointed scissors used for precise, delicate work. They are commonly used in plastic surgery, microsurgery, and any procedure requiring fine tissue manipulation. Available in straight and curved patterns.
Tenotomy Scissors
Tenotomy scissors (such as the Stevens pattern) have fine, blunt-tipped blades designed for blunt dissection and cutting in confined spaces. They are widely used in ophthalmic, ENT, and plastic surgery procedures.
Bandage and Stitch Scissors
These are utility scissors designed for cutting dressings, bandages, and sutures at the skin surface. The angled blade with a blunt lower tip protects the patient during dressing removal. Not intended for tissue dissection.
Key Selection Criteria
Blade Shape: Straight vs Curved
Straight blades offer direct, precise cuts and are preferred for suture cutting and surface work. Curved blades allow the surgeon to follow tissue contours and dissect around structures — they are generally preferred for deeper dissection.
Tip Profile: Sharp/Sharp, Sharp/Blunt, Blunt/Blunt
Sharp-tipped scissors cut cleanly but carry a higher risk of inadvertent puncture. Blunt-tipped scissors are safer for blunt dissection and working near vessels or nerves. The choice depends on the tissue type and proximity to critical structures.
Handle Length
Longer handles provide better reach for deep cavities and laparoscopic-adjacent procedures. Shorter handles offer more control for superficial, fine work. Standard lengths suit most general procedures; longer patterns are available for deep abdominal or thoracic work.
Material and Finish
High-quality surgical scissors are manufactured from German or high-grade stainless steel with a satin or mirror finish. Tungsten carbide-insert scissors (identifiable by gold-coloured rings) hold a sharper edge for longer and are preferred for high-volume cutting tasks.
Quick Reference: Matching Scissors to Task
- Cutting sutures: Straight Mayo or stitch scissors
- General tissue dissection: Curved Metzenbaum
- Deep tissue / fascia: Curved Mayo
- Fine / delicate dissection: Iris or tenotomy scissors
- Dressing removal: Bandage scissors
- Microsurgery: Micro iris scissors
Explore our range of surgical scissors and dissecting instruments across our all ranges.
