Vascular clamps temporarily stop blood flow through a vessel so the surgeon can work on it. Unlike ordinary hemostats, they must hold firmly without crushing or tearing the vessel wall. That is why most vascular clamps use atraumatic DeBakey-style jaws and are made to precise tolerances.
In short
Vascular clamps use atraumatic jaws and come in many angles and sizes. Bulldog clamps are small spring clamps for small vessels; larger ring-handled clamps such as Satinsky and Cooley are used on larger vessels and for partial occlusion.
Atraumatic jaws#
Most vascular clamps have DeBakey-style jaws: fine, interlocking longitudinal rows that grip the vessel evenly without teeth. The jaws must close evenly along their full length so pressure is spread evenly. Uneven jaws concentrate pressure and can damage the vessel lining.
Common vascular clamps#
| Clamp | Design | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Bulldog clamps | Small, spring-loaded, straight or curved | Occluding small vessels without ring handles in the way |
| Satinsky | Ring-handled, curved, side-biting jaws | Partial occlusion of large vessels |
| Cooley | Ring-handled, various angles and curves | Occluding larger vessels |
| DeBakey peripheral clamps | Angled, ring-handled | Peripheral vascular surgery |
Angles, curves and sizes#
Vascular clamps are made in many angles and jaw lengths so they can reach vessels at different depths and orientations. When ordering, specify the pattern, jaw length, angle or curve, and overall length. For bulldog clamps, specify straight or curved and the jaw length.
Care and inspection#
Inspection checklist
- Close the clamp on thin paper: the jaws should grip evenly along their length.
- Check the jaw teeth under magnification for damage or debris.
- Ensure the ratchet engages smoothly on each tooth.
- Check bulldog springs for consistent tension.
Frequently asked questions#
Why not use ordinary hemostats on vessels?#
Ordinary hemostats have jaws designed to crush and hold. Vascular clamps have atraumatic jaws that occlude flow while protecting the vessel wall.
What is a side-biting clamp?#
A clamp, such as the Satinsky, that closes over part of a vessel’s wall so blood can still flow through the rest of the vessel.
How are bulldog clamps applied?#
By hand or with a dedicated applier. They are small enough to stay in place without handles getting in the way.
Order vascular clamps from Gami Surgical#
Gami Surgical manufactures vascular clamps and other cardiovascular instruments in Sialkot, Pakistan, and delivers worldwide. Send us the patterns, angles and sizes you need for a quote.
