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PEAK SURGICAL
SKU:PS-P-00031
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Pollock Rib Shears 12.25" (311mm) are specialized post mortem instruments designed for controlled sectioning of ribs during autopsy, pathology, forensic examination, and anatomical procedures. The Pollock pattern combines large curved cutting jaws, a central pivot, and extended lever handles to provide a dedicated manual instrument for opening the thoracic cavity during professional post-mortem examination.
With an overall length of 12.25 inches (311 mm), these rib shears provide extended reach and leverage while maintaining direct control of the working jaws. Their purpose-built configuration makes them suitable for pathology departments, forensic facilities, mortuaries, medical examination environments, and anatomical laboratories where rib sectioning is required as part of a structured post-mortem workflow.
The Pollock pattern is designed specifically around the mechanical requirements of rib sectioning. Unlike general surgical scissors, the instrument uses substantial opposing jaws positioned close to the central pivot, together with long handles that transfer manual pressure toward the cutting end.
The curved jaw profile allows the working end to be positioned around the selected rib before the cutting action is completed. This dedicated design provides an appropriate instrument profile for thoracic access during post mortem procedures where standard soft-tissue scissors are not suitable.
The overall length of 12.25 inches (311 mm) provides a longer working frame than smaller rib-shear patterns. The extended handles help the operator apply controlled manual force while maintaining the cutting jaws in the intended position.
The additional length can be useful where increased working reach or leverage is preferred during thoracic examination. Instrument selection should always be based on the procedural requirements, specimen anatomy, and institutional post-mortem protocols.
The distal end of the Pollock Rib Shears features large curved opposing jaws designed to engage the rib before cutting. Their shape helps position the working surfaces around the target area while the central pivot transfers movement from the handles to the cutting end.
Before applying force, the jaws should be deliberately positioned around the selected rib. Controlled handle closure then brings the cutting surfaces together to complete the sectioning action.
The long handle design is a defining feature of the Pollock pattern. Manual force applied at the handles is transferred through the pivot to the working jaws, providing the operator with leverage during rib sectioning.
The extended handle profile also creates working distance between the user's hands and the cutting field, supporting controlled instrument placement during thoracic access.
During an autopsy or post mortem examination, sectioning of the ribs may be required to provide access to the thoracic cavity and internal anatomical structures. Pollock Rib Shears are designed specifically for this stage of the examination.
Once the appropriate ribs have been identified according to the examination protocol, the shear jaws can be positioned around the rib and operated manually. The instrument is intended to support rib sectioning as part of a professional pathology or forensic workflow.
The Pollock Rib Shears are manufactured from stainless steel for reusable professional instrument use. Stainless steel provides the structural rigidity required for a manually operated rib-cutting instrument while supporting routine cleaning, inspection, and reprocessing.
The instrument should be inspected before each use for jaw condition, cutting-edge integrity, pivot function, handle alignment, surface condition, and overall mechanical operation. Instruments showing damage, deformation, corrosion, excessive joint movement, or impaired cutting action should be evaluated before being returned to service.
Peak Surgicals lists the Pollock Rib Shears as reusable and autoclavable. After use, the instrument should be cleaned and reprocessed according to the healthcare or laboratory facility's validated procedures for reusable stainless steel instruments.
The cutting jaws, central pivot, handle surfaces, and recessed areas should receive particular attention during cleaning. After decontamination, the instrument should be inspected before sterilization and storage.
| Product Name | Pollock Rib Shears |
|---|---|
| Instrument Type | Post Mortem / Autopsy Rib Shears |
| Pattern | Pollock Pattern |
| Overall Length | 12.25 in (311 mm) |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Working End | Curved Opposing Cutting Jaws |
| Handle Design | Long Lever Handles |
| Primary Function | Controlled Rib Sectioning |
| Application | Post Mortem, Autopsy, Pathology and Forensic Examination |
| Operation | Manual |
| Reusable | Yes |
| Reprocessing | Autoclavable |
| SKU | PS-P-00031 |
Pollock Rib Shears are intended for professional environments that perform systematic post mortem examinations. Typical settings include pathology departments, forensic examination facilities, mortuaries, anatomy laboratories, and medical education environments where dedicated autopsy instrumentation is required.
The instrument may be incorporated into a complete post mortem instrument set alongside dissection scissors, forceps, saws, retractors, probes, chisels, and other examination tools. Its specific role within that set is controlled sectioning of ribs for thoracic access.
Peak Surgicals also offers London Pattern Post Mortem Rib Shears at 9.5 inches (241 mm). The Pollock Rib Shears are longer at 12.25 inches (311 mm), providing a different working length and lever configuration for facilities selecting instruments according to their preferred post mortem workflow.
Both patterns are designed for rib sectioning during autopsy procedures, but the appropriate model should be selected according to instrument dimensions, specimen requirements, operator preference, and institutional practice.
Before use, open and close the handles to confirm smooth pivot movement and proper opposition of the cutting jaws. Check the instrument for visible deformation, damaged edges, loose joint components, corrosion, abnormal resistance, or other signs that may affect function.
The cutting end should engage predictably when the handles are operated. Any instrument that does not function normally should be removed from service and assessed according to the facility's instrument-maintenance procedures.
Following use, visible biological material should be removed promptly according to the facility's validated decontamination process. The instrument should be cleaned with the jaws opened where appropriate so that the cutting surfaces and pivot area can be accessed effectively.
After cleaning, inspect the jaws, pivot, handles, and stainless steel surfaces before sterilization. Reprocessing, sterilization, drying, and storage should follow the validated protocols applicable to reusable instruments within the facility.
These rib shears are intended for trained professionals involved in post mortem and anatomical examination procedures. Users may include pathology personnel, forensic examination teams, medical examiners, mortuary professionals, anatomical laboratory staff, and institutional procurement teams responsible for sourcing dedicated autopsy instrumentation.
What are Pollock Rib Shears used for?
Pollock Rib Shears are designed for controlled sectioning of ribs during autopsy and post mortem examinations when access to the thoracic cavity is required.
What is the overall length of the instrument?
The overall length is 12.25 inches, equivalent to 311 mm.
What pattern are these rib shears?
This model uses the Pollock pattern with large curved cutting jaws and long lever handles.
What material are the shears made from?
The instrument is manufactured from stainless steel for reusable professional use.
Are Pollock Rib Shears reusable?
Yes. Peak Surgicals lists this instrument as reusable and autoclavable.
Are these standard surgical scissors?
No. Pollock Rib Shears are specialized post mortem instruments designed for rib sectioning rather than routine soft-tissue cutting.
Where are Pollock Rib Shears typically used?
They are intended for professional pathology, forensic, mortuary, post mortem, and anatomical examination environments.
What is the SKU?
The Peak Surgicals SKU is PS-P-00031.
