A ball and socket towel clamp, also known as a Backhaus towel clamp, is a surgical instrument used to secure drapes to the surgical site during an operation.
 
It has two main features:
Ball and socket tips: These tips grip the drape without puncturing it, minimizing the risk of tearing the sterile barrier.
Ring handles: These handles allow the surgeon to easily open and close the clamp with one hand.
 
Ball and socket towel clamps are made of stainless steel and are reusable. They are an important part of maintaining a sterile field during surgery.