Haemostatic forceps: Kelly vs Crile vs Halsted (mosquito) vs Rochester

What a haemostatic forceps is

A locking (ratcheted) forceps used to clamp vessels and tissue and control bleeding. Models differ mainly in size, jaw shape and how much of the jaw is serrated.

The most common models

• Halsted (mosquito): small and delicate, fine jaws fully serrated — for small vessels and delicate procedures.
• Kelly: medium size, serrations only on the distal half of the jaw — for medium vessels.
• Crile: like the Kelly but serrated along the full length of the jaw.
• Rochester-Pean: larger and sturdier, fully serrated — for bulkier tissue and larger vessels.
• Kocher (Ochsner): like the Rochester with a 1×2 tooth at the tip, for firm tissue.

Straight or curved?

Curved versions make access and visibility easier in cavities and deep planes; straight ones are handy for surface clamping and general use. Many surgeons keep both in the tray.

How to judge quality

• Tips meet in line, without overlapping, when closed.
• The ratchet locks firmly on each tooth and opens without excessive force.
• Smooth joint with no side play.
• Surgical-grade stainless steel and a burr-free finish.