There are a number of different methods for designing and manufacturing high precision surgical instruments. These days, the best techniques are considered those that use computers and 3D imaging for the design process and molds, drop forging and press work for the actual manufacturing of the tools.
Materials are typically selected depending on the types of surgical instruments that are being built. In many cases, stainless steel proves to be the best raw material used to build a large variety of tools for surgeons, from tweezers and forceps to retractors and various cutting and orthopedic surgical instruments. Magnetic and non-magnetic stainless steel is used for different types of tools as necessary, and the material typically needs to have a composition of about 11% or more chromium, for an ideal level of corrosion resistance.
With the aid of computers and 3D designs, a die is cast and a mold is prepared for the tools. The drop forging process is then used to mold the steel into shape. The process can be done by hand for small quantities, with the added use of specialized milling tools.
Press work and surface treatment will then be used to get the right shape and increase the corrosion resistance of the tool. Finally, experts will use machining and filling processes to get the right shapes, indentations and features that will make the design of the tool as accurate as possible.
Originally Posted right here: A Rough Description of How Surgical Instruments Are Actually Made
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