Cusco’s speculum is a self-retaining, bivalved vaginal speculum with a jaw that opens like a duck bill. It’s commonly used to inspect the vagina and cervix. It holds the vaginal walls open without needing assistance, making it ideal for procedures like Pap smears, colposcopies, and IUCD insertions.

•  Length: ~80 mm

•  Width: ~22 mm (varies with size)

•  Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and Narrow/Virgin

•  Mechanism: Centre screw or side screw

•  Finish: Satin or mirror finish (to reduce glare)

•  Centre-screw type (common)

•  Side-screw variant

•  Virgin/narrow size for smaller anatomical needs

•  All are duck-bill shaped with a two-blade mechanism

•  Primary: Medical-grade stainless steel

•  Alternative: Plastic (disposable) — less common in Cusco type

•  Category: Surgical/Gynaecological Instrument

•  Form: Reusable (most common), occasionally single-use (plastic version)

•  Vaginal/cervical examination

•  Pap smear collection

•  IUCD insertion/removal

•  Colposcopy/ Cryotherapy/cauterization

•  Used in large animal reproductive examinations

•  Modified versions applied for cows, mares, or larger species

•  Less common in small pets due to anatomical constraints

•  Self-retaining — no assistant needed

•  Retracts vaginal wall efficiently

•  Durable and corrosion-resistant

•  Easy to clean and sterilize

•  Bulky for small anatomies

•  May obscure small lesions

•  Uncomfortable if wrong size is used

•  Not ideal for deep surgical access

•  Choose the correct size to avoid discomfort

•  Always sterilize before and after use

•  Check screw mechanism for smooth operation

•  Do not force open — gentle use recommended

•   Handling: Use sterile gloves; open slowly using screw

•   Sterilization Methods:

o  Autoclaving (preferred)

o  Chemical disinfection (for heat-sensitive materials)

o  Dry heat sterilizers (for clinics without autoclaves)

•   HS Code:                   90183990 – Instruments and appliances used in medical/surgical/veterinary sciences

•   HSN Code (India):

o  90189099 – “Vaginal Speculum (Cusco type)”

o  Other subcodes: 90189023 (Medium), 90189029 (Large)

Used by gynaecologists, midwives, and OB-GYN practitioners in:

•  Clinics

•  Hospitals

•  Birthing centres

•  Mobile health units

•  Reproductive exams in cows, horses, goats

•  Vaginal examination before/after delivery

•  Cervical inspection or treatment in livestock

Q1: Can Cusco speculums be reused?

A1: Yes. Reusable stainless-steel types are autoclave-safe and intended for repeated use.

Q2: What sizes are available?
A2: Typically Small, Medium, Large, and a narrow “Virgin” variant.

Q3: Is it safe for all patients?

A3: Yes, when the correct size is selected and used gently by trained professionals.

Q4: Can it be used on animals?

A4: Yes, especially in large animals like cows and horses (with size-appropriate modifications).

Q5: How do I sterilize a Cusco speculum?

A5: Autoclaving is ideal. For non-metal versions, use high-level disinfectant solutions.