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Surgical Instrument Repair and Maintenance: How to Make Instruments Last Longer

2026-11-11 · Kotina MFG Company

With budgets under pressure, many hospitals are looking at the cost per use of their instruments. Good maintenance is the easiest way to lower it.

Daily care habits

- Never drop instruments into a pile. Place heavy items at the bottom of trays and delicate ones on top.
- Keep sharp and fine instruments separate and protected.
- Rinse blood and soil quickly; do not let them dry on the instrument.
- Do not use saline for soaking and avoid harsh chemicals not approved in the IFU.
- Open hinged instruments during cleaning and sterilization.

Regular inspection

Check every instrument after each cycle:
- Jaw alignment and tips.
- Smooth box lock and ratchet that holds securely.
- Cutting edges on scissors; they should cut cleanly through the full length of the blade.
- Cracks, rust spots, pitting or loose parts.

When to repair

Instruments that are slightly dull, misaligned or stiff can often be repaired by a qualified service: sharpening scissors, realigning jaws, retipping needle holders with tungsten carbide, and passivating or polishing steel. Remove damaged instruments from service immediately.

When to replace

If a box lock is cracked, jaws do not meet, or corrosion has attacked the working surface, replace the instrument. A faulty tool risks patient safety and wastes operating time.

Buy instruments with good steel and finishing, and they will repay the investment many times.