The Moynihan artery forcep is a specialized surgical instrument primarily used in gynecological and obstetrical procedures.
Its key function is to grasp, hold, and clamp blood vessels and ligaments around the uterus within the pelvic cavity.
 
Here's a breakdown of the Moynihan artery forcep's key characteristics:
Grasping and Clamping: The forcep features a pair of curved jaws with fine serrations for a secure and atraumatic (minimal tissue damage) grip on arteries and veins. This gripping ability allows for effective control of bleeding (hemostasis) during surgery.
Jaw Variations: Moynihan artery forceps come in variations with short or long jaws to accommodate different surgical approaches and reach various depths within the operative field.
Enhanced Handling: The forcep is designed with elongated straight shafts for reaching deep surgical areas and ergonomic finger rings to ensure superior handling and control during use.
Locking Mechanism: The forcep incorporates a ratchet system that facilitates self-locking of the jaws, keeping them securely clamped on the grasped tissue. Alternatively, some designs feature a box lock joint at the point where the handles meet, allowing the surgeon to lock the jaws together manually.
 
Overall, the Moynihan artery forcep is a valuable instrument for gynecological and obstetrical surgeons, providing a secure and efficient method for grasping, clamping, and controlling blood vessels and ligaments during surgical procedures.