Massive mitts and knobbly knuckles pose formidable barriers. Yet, clear sighting is essential when performing discectomies through mini incisions or down cannulas as cramped as crew’s quarters in a submarine. Bayoneted IVD rongeurs let all hands (great and small) perform their appointed function lateral to both sight and scope.

Designated as right-handled or left- handled, surgeons may make their first selection according to hand of choice. Shaft length is determined not from the overall length of the shaft but from the distal bayonet bend to the tip of the cup. IVD rongeur shafts are offered in three working lengths of 110 mm, 130 mm and 160 mm. Selection abounds with expertly crafted cups available in bite widths of 1.5 mm, 2.0 mm, 3.0 mm and 4.0 mm. Cups face straight ahead, or 30º angled up, or 30º angled down. As with their more conventional counterparts, bayonet IVD rongeurs these should only be used for cutting disc and other soft tissue material.

For bone nibbling, there are also bayoneted Kerrison punches. Beauty and brawn of the more familiar Buxton Kerrison punches combine with the offset trajectory of the bayonet innovation to produce a superlative instrument of formidable capabilities. Punches are available in left-handled offsets for the southpaw surgeons, right-handled offsets for the regnant majority.

An ambidextrous up-bayonet style is also an intriguing option. All three styles come in three shaft lengths of 110 mm, 150 mm and 180 mm. Choose from among five nibbling sizes ranging from 1.0 mm to 5.0 mm, then select from three foot plates: 90º, 40º and a 40º angle thin foot plate. With selection so varied and intricate, it is suggested you contact Buxton for a catalog.

The instrument of choice for all hands operating under the “see"

Talking Back, vol. 3, no. 1