Standing the test of time: instrumentation in gynecologic surgery

The aim of this video is to provide a descriptive history of commonly used instruments in gynecologic surgery. Eight surgical instruments and the surgeons who developed them are detailed in this video: the Breisky retractor, Kocher clamp, Deaver retractor, Kelly clamp, Mayo scissors, Heaney clamp, Adson forceps, and Magrina Bookwalter. We outline biographic information regarding the surgeon developer as well as the history of invention of each instrument. It is important to note, many surgical instruments were developed in the 19th and 20th century before informed consent and research on human subjects were strongly protected. We are thankful to now practice medicine at a time when patient-centered care and shared decision making are emphasized. By exploring the careers and motivations of the eponymous surgeons responsible for the creation of surgical instruments, modern-day gynecologic surgeons are able to gain a new appreciation for the frequently utilized tools in the operating room.