Ovum Forceps Uses & Applications Guide

The significance of gynecological tools cannot be overstated when it comes to women’s health and medical care. These specialized surgical tools are crucial for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring multiple gynecological issues and disorders. One such incredible tool that is a part of every gynecological toolkit for its numerous benefits is ovum forceps. Moreover, the ovum forceps used in the gynecological field make it one of the most essential gynecological equipment. The 2 x SISCO Ovum Forceps (10 inch) and the Vaishnav Surgicals Ovum Forceps (10 inch) are two standout options in this category, each designed to enhance precision and safety during egg retrieval procedures. The ovum forceps from Sisco and Vaishnav Surgical are indispensable, making them a vital part of any operating room setup.

In this blog, we will be discussing ovum forceps uses, ovum forceps purpose, and significance so that you better know why you need it in your operating room.

What are Ovum Forceps?

Ovum forceps are specialized and surgeons use it to hold, grasp, and manipulate tissues within the female reproductive organs, as well as the ovum and placenta. They are commonly utilized in various procedures such as cesarean sections, uterine repair, and hysterectomies. Additionally, ovum forceps are widely used in IVF (in vitro fertilization) procedures and egg retrieval surgeries.

Available in various designs, ovum forceps serve different purposes. Some, known as obstetrical forceps, are designed to assist during vaginal deliveries (forceps delivery), particularly in challenging situations, to ensure the safety of both the mother and the baby.

Ovum Forceps Uses and Applications of:

Ovum forceps are versatile in surgical instruments and are widely used in gynaecology and reproductive medicine for various procedures.

Fertility Treatments:

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Ovum forceps are crucial for the retrieval of oocytes during IVF procedures. They allow surgeons to grasp and extract mature eggs from ovarian follicles. After ovarian stimulation, a transvaginal ultrasound-guided procedure is performed, where the forceps help safely retrieve the oocytes for fertilization in the laboratory.

Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI): In ICSI, ovum forceps facilitate the collection of oocytes that will be directly injected with sperm. The forceps are used to carefully grasp the oocytes, ensuring minimal trauma, which is vital for successful fertilization and subsequent embryo development.

Other Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART): Ovum forceps are utilized in various ART procedures, including egg donation and fertility preservation. In egg donation, they assist in the retrieval of oocytes from donors, while in fertility preservation, they are used to extract oocytes for cryopreservation.

Medical Research:

Oocyte Development Studies: Ovum forceps are employed to retrieve oocytes from animal models for research on oogenesis, helping to analyse factors affecting oocyte quality and maturation.

Fertilization Research: Researchers use ovum forceps to manipulate oocytes during experiments that explore sperm-oocyte interactions, investigating the mechanisms of fertilization and early embryonic development.

Reproductive Health Research: In studies aimed at improving ART techniques, ovum forceps are used to obtain oocytes for evaluating different fertilization methods and assessing their effectiveness in enhancing reproductive outcomes.

Ovum Forceps: Mechanism and Handling:

The use of forceps in gynecological procedures, particularly during assisted deliveries, involves a delicate and precise approach to grasping and holding the fetal head. Here’s how this process is conducted, emphasizing the care taken to prevent damage to the oocytes or surrounding tissues:

Preparation: Before the application of forceps, it is essential that the cervix is fully dilated, retracted, and the membranes have ruptured. The woman is positioned on her back, often using stirrups for support, and a regional anesthetic is administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.

Assessment and Positioning: The precise position of the fetal head must be ascertained, traditionally through tactile examination of the fetal skull but now often confirmed via ultrasound. This accuracy is crucial for the effective application of forceps.

Insertion of Forceps: The two blades of the forceps are inserted with care; typically, the left blade is introduced first for common occipito-anterior positions, while the posterior blade is used in cases of transverse positions. The blades must be locked securely once in place, ensuring stability without exerting undue pressure.

Gentle Traction: Once positioned correctly, the fetal head is gently rotated to the optimal occipito-anterior position if necessary. Gentle traction, applied in the axis of the pelvis, is employed to facilitate delivery. The recommended force for this is a maximum of 30 lbf (130 Newtons), minimizing any potential trauma.

Safety Mechanisms and Precautions: Safety precautions are critical during the procedure. Careful monitoring of the fetal heart rate and maternal wellbeing is essential, along with the potential performance of an episiotomy if required to prevent tearing of surrounding tissues. The operator must possess the necessary skill and caution to ensure a safe delivery, particularly during mid-forceps applications where head engagement is mandatory.

Types and Variations in Ovum Forceps:

Straight Forceps: These forceps have parallel jaws that do not curve; they maintain a linear profile. They are ideal for grasping or holding tissue in areas where a straight approach is needed. Commonly used in general surgical procedures, wound closure, and suturing. Helpful for accessing flat surfaces or straight-line anatomical structures.

Curved Forceps: These forceps feature jaws that are curved, allowing for easier manipulation around anatomical structures. Particularly useful in deeper cavities or areas where the line of sight is limited. Often employed in gynecological procedures, including those involving ovum retrieval. Effective for grasping tissues at angles or in confined spaces, enhancing visibility and access.

Specialized Designs and Modifications of Ovum Forceps

Curved Jaws: These improve the access to ovaries and enhance navigation around pelvic anatomy.

Tapered Tips: Tapered or pointed tips for precise grasping. It minimizes trauma to surrounding ovarian tissue.

Hollow or Open Jaws: Larger surface area for secure holding. Maintains grip on the ovum without damage.

Locking Mechanisms: Locks to secure the grasp on the ovum. Prevents inadvertent release during transfer.

Adjustable Angles: Angles can be adjusted for flexibility. Adapts to anatomical variations in patients.

Coated or Textured Jaws: Coated or textured for better grip. Reduces slipping, ensuring a secure hold.

Importance and Benefits of Ovum Forceps:

Efficiency: Ovum forceps enable fertility specialists to retrieve multiple oocytes quickly, which is crucial for enhancing the success rates of IVF procedures.

Precision: These forceps allow for accurate extraction and grasping of oocytes, significantly reducing the risk of damage to adjacent ovarian tissue.

Safety: Ovum forceps ensure the safe retrieval of eggs, minimizing potential complications such as infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding tissues.

Care and Maintenance for Ovum Forceps:

• Rinse immediately after use to remove debris. Use a soft brush and mild detergent; avoid abrasives. Consider ultrasonic cleaning for thoroughness.
• Immerse in disinfectant according to manufacturer instructions. Follow institutional sterilization protocols.
• Autoclave if applicable; follow recommended conditions. Use alternative methods if not autoclavable.
• Regularly check for wear, corrosion, or damage. Ensure locking mechanisms and jaw alignment ovum forceps function properly.
• Store in a clean, dry environment, preferably in a protective case. Avoid high humidity areas.
• Keep a log of cleaning, disinfection, and maintenance activities. Track usage frequency for replacement needs.
• Ensure all staff are trained in proper care and maintenance protocols.