Tungsten carbide instruments are easy to spot in any set: they have gold-coloured handles. The gold colour is a convention that tells staff the instrument has tungsten carbide (TC) inserts on its working surfaces. These inserts are far harder than stainless steel, which changes how long the instrument performs well.
In short
Tungsten carbide inserts make needle holders grip better for longer and keep scissors sharp longer. They cost more at purchase but often less over the instrument’s life, especially for high-use instruments.
What tungsten carbide is#
Tungsten carbide is a very hard material made from tungsten and carbon. In instruments, small pieces of it are brazed (joined) onto the jaws of needle holders and forceps or onto the cutting edges of scissors. The rest of the instrument is stainless steel.
Which instruments benefit most#
| Instrument | Benefit of TC inserts |
|---|---|
| Needle holders | Fine crosshatched jaws grip needles securely and wear slowly |
| Scissors | Edges stay sharp much longer |
| Thumb forceps | Gripping surface lasts longer |
Cost over the instrument’s life#
A standard needle holder’s jaws wear smooth with use, and the needle starts to rotate. A TC needle holder keeps its grip much longer, and in many designs the worn inserts can be replaced, which extends the instrument’s life further. For instruments used every day, the lower number of repairs and replacements often outweighs the higher purchase price.
Choosing the right jaw pattern#
TC needle holders are offered with different crosshatch sizes for different needles: finer patterns for small needles and fine sutures, coarser patterns for larger needles. Using a fine jaw with a large needle can damage the insert, so match the jaw to the sutures you use.
Caring for tungsten carbide instruments#
Care checklist
- Do not drop TC instruments; carbide is hard but can chip.
- Do not over-close needle holders on large needles.
- Clean the jaws with a soft brush; debris in the crosshatch reduces grip.
- Avoid harsh chemicals that are not approved for instruments.
- Send instruments with chipped or worn inserts for insert replacement.
Frequently asked questions#
Are tungsten carbide instruments made entirely of carbide?#
No. Only the inserts on the working surfaces are carbide. The handles and body are stainless steel.
Are gold handles gold-plated?#
The gold colour is a finish used to identify TC instruments. It is a marker, not a sign that the instrument is made of gold.
Can TC inserts be replaced?#
On many needle holders and scissors, yes. A repair service can fit new inserts and restore the instrument.
Order tungsten carbide instruments from Gami Surgical#
Gami Surgical manufactures needle holders, scissors and forceps with tungsten carbide inserts in Sialkot, Pakistan, and delivers worldwide. Send us your list for a quote.
