Medical Scissors with Case
Scissors
An image of the scissors with their blades closed. This image shows the forceps which sit behind the blades, which are also closed.
Name/Title
Medical Scissors with CaseEntry/Object ID
2025.2.334Tags
1800s, surgical, england, medicalDescription
A pair of medical scissors for use while grafting skin. Behind the curved blades of the scissors is a pair of forceps which pick up a small area of healthy skin to be grafted, which is then cut by the scissors as they close. This removes a small 'island' of skin which can be grafted onto a wound to help the healing process. This technique is known as the Reverdin Pinch Graft, after the Swiss surgeon who developed the process. The scissors are marked "MAW LONDON" on the pivot area, underneath the forceps. Maw were surgical instrument makers who began life as Hornby & Maw in 1807, with various name changes over the years. The case lining is marked "S. MAW SON & THOMPSON LONDON" with an image of their trademark. The business became S. Maw Son & Thompson in 1870, which is around the same time that the Reverdin Pinch Graft technique became popular, so it is likely that these scissors date from the late 19th century, before the company name changed again in 1901. The shoulder transition is st3, the cross section is cs4, and the points are safety.Category
Scissors, Surgical