Backhaus or Jones towel clamp forceps are surgical instruments designed to firmly grasp surgical drapes or towels and attach them securely to the skin or other drapes during surgical procedures. They feature sharp, pointed tips that penetrate towels or drapes to provide a strong grip, ensuring the sterile field remains intact.

 •   Material: Surgical-grade stainless steel (304 or 316)

•   Finish: Mirror polished or satin finish for smooth surface and corrosion resistance

•   Mechanism: Ratchet locking to maintain grip pressure

•   Sizes Available:

o   Size 4 (Approx. 10 cm / 4 inches)

o   Size 5 (Approx. 12.5 cm / 5 inches)

o   Size 6 (Approx. 15 cm / 6 inches)

•   Tip Design: Sharp, pointed, slightly curved or straight tips for secure grip on towels and drapes   

•   Size 4: Small size for delicate or paediatric applications

•   Size 5: Medium size, most commonly used in general surgeries

•   Size 6: Larger size for heavy drapes or veterinary large animal surgeries

•   Shape: Scissor-like with ratchet locking and sharp tips

•   Backhaus Clamp: Classic design with sharp pointed tips for penetrating towels

•   Jones Clamp: Similar in design, sometimes with minor ergonomic variations

•   Reusable Stainless Steel Clamp: Autoclavable and durable

•   Disposable Variants: Plastic or coated, single-use

•   High-quality surgical stainless steel (304 or 316)

•   Titanium variants available for specialized use (lighter and hypoallergenic)

•   Surgical instruments

•   Towel and drape management tools

•   Sterile surgical accessories

•   Solid metallic instrument

•   Scissor-like design with locking ratchet

•   Sharp pointed tips for secure tissue/towel penetration

•   Secure surgical towels/drapes to the patient's skin or other towels during surgery

•   Used extensively in human and veterinary surgeries to maintain sterile field

•   Hold surgical drapes firmly, preventing slippage

•   Used in both major surgeries and minor procedures requiring draping

•   Provides a very secure grip due to sharp, penetrating tips

•   Durable and reusable after sterilization

•   Multiple sizes available for different patient types and procedures

•   Helps maintain sterility and reduce contamination risk

•   Can be used on thick or heavy drapes without slipping

•   Sharp tips can cause accidental injury if mishandled

•   May leave small puncture marks on towels or drapes

•   Requires careful handling to avoid tissue injury

•   Risk of rust if not properly sterilized and maintained

•   Handle with care to avoid accidental injury or punctures

•   Ensure proper sterilization before and after use (autoclaving recommended)

•   Inspect regularly for tip sharpness and integrity

•   Avoid excessive force to prevent towel or skin damage

•   Use appropriate size depending on surgical needs

•   HS Code: 9018.39 (Medical instruments for surgery and veterinary use)

•   HSN Code: 9018 (India)

•   Clean with enzymatic detergents immediately after use

•   Sterilize by autoclaving at 121°C for 15-20 minutes

•   Avoid corrosive chemicals to maintain stainless steel integrity

•   Store in sterile, dry environment to prevent rust

•   Lubricate ratchet mechanism periodically for smooth operation

 Veterinary Application

•   Used to secure towels and drapes in veterinary surgeries on small to large animals

•   Suitable for animal skin, ensuring strong grip without slippage

•   Essential in spay/neuter, orthopaedic, and soft tissue surgeries in animals

•   Sizes 5 and 6 are especially useful for larger animals and tougher drapes

•   Standard instrument in human surgical theatres for towel and drape fixation

•   Size 4 is favoured in paediatric and delicate surgeries

•   Size 5 and 6 are common in general surgeries including abdominal, orthopaedic, and emergency procedures

•   Helps maintain sterile environment and prevent contamination 

 Q1: What distinguishes Backhaus towel clamps from other towel clips?

   A1: Backhaus clamps have sharp pointed tips that penetrate towels for a stronger hold, unlike some towel clips which only grip externally.

Q2: Are Backhaus towel clamps reusable?

  A2: Yes, stainless steel Backhaus clamps are reusable and sterilizable through autoclaving.

Q3: What size clamp should I choose for veterinary use?

  A3: Size 5 or 6 is generally suitable for larger animals, while size 4 is better for small animals.

Q4: Can Backhaus clamps cause tissue damage?

  A4: Yes, if not used carefully, the sharp tips can puncture skin or tissue.

Q5: How should these clamps be sterilized?

  A5: Autoclaving at 121°C for 15-20 minutes is the most effective sterilization method.