From the Research
A Raney clip is a small, disposable surgical instrument used to control bleeding during surgical procedures, particularly in neurosurgery and cranial operations. It consists of a metal clip with serrated jaws that can be applied to the edges of scalp wounds or incisions to compress blood vessels and achieve hemostasis. Raney clips are typically made of stainless steel and are designed to be easily applied and removed without causing additional tissue damage. They are particularly useful for scalp hemostasis because they can be quickly placed along the incision line, allowing surgeons to control bleeding efficiently while minimizing blood loss during the operation. The clips work by applying pressure to the blood vessels in the scalp, temporarily stopping blood flow until more permanent hemostasis can be achieved. After the procedure, Raney clips are removed before wound closure, leaving minimal trauma to the tissue. Their effectiveness stems from their ability to provide consistent pressure across blood vessels while being less traumatic than traditional sutures or cautery for temporary hemostasis.
Key Characteristics of Raney Clips
- Made of stainless steel
- Designed for easy application and removal
- Used for scalp hemostasis in neurosurgery and cranial operations
- Work by applying pressure to blood vessels to achieve temporary hemostasis
Clinical Use and Importance
Raney clips are a crucial tool in neurosurgical procedures, as they allow for efficient control of bleeding and minimize blood loss during operations. As noted in a case report from 1, the removal of Raney clips is often the last process during cranial surgery prior to the closure of skin incision, highlighting their importance in ensuring patient safety and preventing complications.
Comparison with Other Hemostatic Devices
While other hemostatic devices, such as the iTClamp 2 and over-the-scope clip 3, are available for controlling bleeding, Raney clips remain a valuable tool in neurosurgery and cranial operations due to their ease of use, effectiveness, and minimal trauma to tissue.
Best Practices for Use
To ensure the safe and effective use of Raney clips, it is essential to follow best practices, including counting all instruments used at and after each step during the operation, including all Raney clips, to prevent complications and ensure patient safety, as emphasized in the case report from 1.