Towel clamps hold surgical drapes in place and can also secure tubing and cables to the drapes. They are among the most numerous instruments in many sets, so choosing durable towel clamps saves money and replacement time.
In short
Penetrating towel clamps such as the Backhaus have sharp, curved points that pierce the drape. Non-penetrating clamps hold without piercing, which matters with disposable drapes that act as a barrier.
Penetrating towel clamps#
The Backhaus towel clamp is the best known. It has finger rings, a ratchet and two curved, sharp points that meet when closed. It holds woven drapes securely and is also used in some procedures to hold tissue. The Jones clamp is a small, spring-handled version without finger rings.
Non-penetrating towel clamps#
Disposable drapes are designed as a barrier against fluids and bacteria, and piercing them can compromise that barrier. Non-penetrating clamps, such as the Lorna pattern, have blunt, flat or rounded jaws that grip the drape without making a hole. They are also used to attach suction tubing and cables to the drape.
| Type | Examples | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Penetrating, ring-handled | Backhaus, Roeder | Woven drapes, firm hold |
| Penetrating, spring-handled | Jones | Small drapes, quick placement |
| Non-penetrating | Lorna and similar | Disposable drapes, tubing and cables |
Sizes#
Towel clamps are commonly available from about 9 cm to 13 cm. Smaller clamps suit fine drapes and small fields; larger ones grip thicker drapes and tubing.
Safety#
The sharp points of penetrating clamps can injure staff and puncture gloves. Close the points before passing the clamp, and count towel clamps with other instruments, as they are easily left in drapes.
Quality checklist
- The points meet exactly and do not cross.
- The ratchet holds firmly so the clamp does not slip off.
- Non-penetrating jaws are smooth and grip evenly.
- The finish is smooth, with no burrs that catch fabric.
Frequently asked questions#
Can Backhaus clamps be used with disposable drapes?#
They can, but piercing a disposable drape can compromise its barrier. Many facilities use non-penetrating clamps with disposable drapes.
How many towel clamps does a set need?#
Often four or more, one for each corner of the field, plus extras for tubing and cables.
How should towel clamps be reprocessed?#
Clean them open, with the points protected, and check that the points still meet before sterilizing.
Order towel clamps from Gami Surgical#
Gami Surgical manufactures penetrating and non-penetrating towel clamps in Sialkot, Pakistan, and delivers worldwide. Send us the patterns, sizes and quantities you need for a quote.
