2017-5 - Dr Patrick Brangan collection

MIMM.2017-5.64

These forceps are Bozeman's type. They have a scissor shape and an S-shape profile, and a locking mechanism. The jaws are joint together, and each jaw is serrated internally. They are made of stainless steel, as suggested by the engraving "Stainless". Also, "Chiron" and the number "23" on each jaw are engraved. Some corrosion is present on the finger ring. They are still used during surgeries for carrying swabs and drapes.

The female catheter is a slender metal tube, gently curved at both ends in opposite directions. The rounded tip features two side ports positioned at different points. At the opposite end of the catheter, there is a ring designed to hold it securely. This type of catheter was commonly used for relieving urinary retention and could be sterilised and cleaned using the provided wire.

The ovum forceps are composed of two looped jaws, screw joint, and are nickel-plated. The jaws have oval fenestrations fitted with a curve. The shanks have curves after the ring handles. On both jaws, the number "5" is engraved, and on one jaw "F", possibly the maker's logo, and "Chrome plate". Corrosion of the plate is present, mostly on one oval fenestration. The item is still used to clamp placental tissue and perform circular movements to detach it for removal.

The splinter forceps are made of steel, and have straight serrated jaws.

The flushing curette is the Rheinstadter's type, and is made of steel. It is composed of a long shaft, enabling deep access into the uterus for effective tissue removal, with knurled ergonomic handle for grip and a cup-shaped tip. The tip has two longitudinal holes, which enabled tissue grasping and efficient flushing. The shaft is a hollow tube, open at both ends, allowing for the passage of fluids during flushing procedures.

The flushing curette is the Rheinstadter's type, and is made of metal [enamelled]. It is composed of a long shaft, enabling deep access into the uterus for effective tissue removal, with knurled ergonomic handle for grip, and a cup-shaped oval tip. The tip has a circular hole in the centre, flanked by two longitudinal holes, which enabled tissue grasping and efficient flushing. The shaft is a hollow tube, open at both ends, allowing for the passage of fluids during flushing procedures. This curette is the size 1 of the three sizes designed by Rheinstadter. The surface of the shaft presents some corrosion.

The mercury glass thermometer is securely held within the wooden frame by a cork at the flat bottom of the frame. The opposite side of the wooden frame features a handle. The thermometer is made of clear glass, allowing for easy temperature reading on the paper scale, printed in black ink along with the brand "Dr FORBES SPECIFICATIONS." and "Made in Germany". Its tip contains mercury. The cork cannot be removed. These types of thermometers were designed by Forbes and used to measure water temperature for give cold, warm or hot baths as part of medical treatment.

Steel nickel-plated mouth gag, with slides as designed by Fergusson, with grooved jaws/parallel blades to fit against patient's teeth, an addition designed by William Robert Ackland. The nickel plate coating is heavily corroded, as well as the India rubber pads. Manufacturer unknown. Mouth gags are still used nowadays during dental surgery to keep a patient’s mouth open.

This uterine curette is the Blake's type. It is composed of a metal, stainless plated (as engraved), and dual blunt tips. The shaft is provided with ergonomic feature for a better control when operating. The plate is corroded. This instrument is still used to remove superficial uterine layer from areas for diagnostic and therapeutic needs.

This rectal speculum consists of detachable components: - hollow tubular structure (rectal speculum): the main part of the speculum is a hallow, tubular structure. It features a slide-in removable component, allowing for easy insertion and adjustment during medical procedures. - hollow handle: serves as the base of the speculum. It accommodates the battery handle and the switch for lighting. The handle has a detachable lid, which provides access to internal components. - plunger It has engraved "british made" on the speculum, and the maker's name "Klinostik British Made" at the bottom of the handle. Corrosion is present.