Heard in the Field - The Not so Hidden Risks of Reusable Bipolar Forceps in the Operating Room

Operating rooms rely on the best tools to perform complex procedures safely and effectively. However, when it comes to reusable bipolar forceps, the reality is that these instruments, though cost-effective at first glance, can present numerous risks that compromise both the success of the surgery and the overall cost savings. Below, we explore the heaviest challenges involving IFU compliance and other real issues heard in the field with reusable bipolar forceps, and why switching to Raina Disposable Bipolar Forceps could be the smarter, more reliable choice for your surgical team.

1. Non-adherence to IFU Reprocessing Standards

A key concern driving the shift away from reusable bipolars is post-operative complications due to mishandled reprocessing and sterilization, as well as continued use of damaged devices. The FDA requires reusable devices to have detailed reprocessing instructions outlined in the Instructions For Use (IFU) manual for cleaning and sterilizing. If these instructions aren't followed precisely, after each case, the device manufacturer is no longer liable. Additionally, any damage at all done to the device due to prolonged use or accidental wear and tear (including bent or misaligned tips, cracks, nicks, voids, exposed insulation) extinguishes the reusability of the device, yet these devices still make it to the operating room table. The IFU itself presents its own batch of challenges to safety and adherence. In a 2023 survey by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology found that 70.6% of respondents found IFUs complex and time-consuming, and 70.2% felt they focused more on product lifespan than preventing infections. Additionally, 68.3% found the instructions unclear on proper cleaning methods. The report highlighted issues with outdated, hard-to-find, and overly complex IFUs, often focusing on device protection over patient safety. When factoring in nationwide low literacy rates, high hospital sector turnover, and unyielding hospital pressures, the risk of post-operative infections increases, making the seemingly cost-saving choice of reusable bipolars riskier than using disposable ones.

2. Tips Not Being Aligned Properly

Alignment is crucial when using bipolar forceps, as it ensures that the electrical current flows precisely through the tips to achieve effective tissue coagulation. Unfortunately, with reusable bipolar forceps, wear and tear can cause the tips to become misaligned. This misalignment may not always be visible to the surgeon but can still have serious consequences, including poor performance and inefficient tissue coagulation. As mentioned, if the device is not in perfect condition, (according to the IFU that everyone is following perfectly) the device should have been discarded. Misaligned forceps might result in burns, unnecessary tissue damage, or other complications, ultimately risking the patient’s safety and the outcome of the surgery.

3. Accidental Disposal of Bipolar Forceps

The nature of reusable bipolar forceps means that they are frequently passed from hand to hand, cleaned, and reprocessed for future cases, on average around fifteen to twenty times, if (and only if) the device has maintained perfect condition through all its uses. However, during the reprocessing, accidents happen. Forceps might be mistakenly discarded along with other single-use instruments, leading to a lack of available tools for the procedure. Once they’re thrown away, it not only results in the loss of valuable equipment but also negates any supposed cost savings from using reusable forceps. The cost of replacing lost instruments could easily exceed any initial savings, creating more financial strain in the long run. In addition, a delay in acquiring a replacement tool can significantly delay or even cancel the surgical procedure, creating additional costs and putting the patient's well-being at risk.

4. Unavailable Bipolar Forceps Due to Current Usage

In a busy surgical environment, one of the most frustrating issues that can occur is the unavailability of reusable bipolar forceps when they are needed. If a set of forceps is already in use during another procedure, it can result in delays, as the surgical team waits for the instruments to be returned, reprocessed, and sterilized. If there is no backup set available, it may lead to a surgical delay or cancellation altogether. Or worse, a decision could get made to cut sterilization procedures to meet a deadline, leaving the patient at risk for infection and the hospital liable. This situation not only wastes valuable time but also undermines the efficiency and flow of the operating room, which can be detrimental to both patient care and the hospital’s bottom line.

5. Reprocessing Delays

Reprocessing reusable instruments, including bipolar forceps, requires training, careful handling, cleaning, and sterilization to ensure that they are safe to use in subsequent procedures. However, reprocessing departments often face delays or backlogs, especially when the instruments are required for an urgent, last-minute case. If bipolar forceps aren’t properly reprocessed or are unavailable in time for the surgery, it could cause significant disruption. Even this error could even lead to canceled surgery, again, putting patient care at risk.

The Solution: Raina Disposable Bipolar Forceps

Given the issues associated with reusable bipolar forceps, the market is shifting to a disposable alternative that offers consistent performance without the risks outlined above. Raina Disposable Bipolar Forceps offer a reliable and cost-effective solution that addresses many of these concerns.

Perfectly Aligned Tips Every Time: Unlike reusable forceps that can suffer from misalignment or wear, Raina disposable bipolar forceps are German manufactured to precise specifications, ensuring perfectly aligned tips for every single use. This consistency ensures optimal performance, reducing the risk of electrical misfires and tissue damage during surgery.
Eliminate Reprocessing Issues: With Raina disposable bipolar forceps, there’s no need to worry about delays in reprocessing or accidental disposal. Each pair is single-use, reducing the chances of contamination, damage, or availability issues. This translates to more reliable instruments and fewer last-minute scrambles to find the right tool.
Cost-Effective Over Time: While the initial cost of disposable forceps may seem higher, when considering the hidden costs associated with reusable forceps—such as reprocessing, maintenance, and the risks of accidents or misalignment—disposable forceps offer a more cost-effective, and budgetable, long-term solution. There are no hidden fees for maintenance or replacement due to accidental disposal. Disposable forceps also strongly reduce the risk of infection, helping hospitals save millions on post-operative complications every year.
Ready When You Are: Raina disposable bipolar forceps are pre-sterilized and ready for use when needed, joining the market direction of placing patient safety as the number one priority. No waiting, no delays, and no unexpected surprises- just a ready-to-go tool that ensures a smooth and efficient surgery.

Conclusion

The risks associated with reusable bipolar forceps are clear. From the potential for misalignment and malfunction to reprocessing delays and accidental disposal, these instruments can inadvertently cause complications that impact patient safety and increase operational costs, and waste precious time. By choosing Raina Disposable Bipolar Forceps, surgical teams can ensure they have a reliable, consistent device every time, minimizing risks, saving time, and ultimately improving the quality of care provided to patients. When it comes to surgery, precision and reliability matter—and Raina Disposable Bipolar Forceps deliver on both.

Source: Cleaning Instructions for Medical Instruments Need an Overhaul. May 16. 2024. https://apic.org/news/cleaning-instructions-for-medical-instruments-need-an-overhaul/