Choosing the Right Lubricant for Surgical Instruments

Surgical instruments are the unsung heroes of healthcare, playing a vital role in every operation. But ensuring their functionality and longevity requires more than precision manufacturing—it also demands proper care and maintenance at every stage of their lifecycle. One key aspect of this care is the use of lubricants. However, not all lubricants are created equal, and their suitability depends on where and how they are used. Here, we’ll break down the journey of surgical instruments, explain the role of lubricants, and provide clear guidance on which types to use at each stage.

1. Manufacturing and Passivation

The journey of a surgical instrument begins with manufacturing and passivation. In this initial stage, instruments are crafted and treated to resist corrosion through a process called passivation. After this, oils like WD-40 or Gun Oil are sometimes applied to protect the instruments during transport and storage. These oils are not medical-grade but serve as temporary protective measures.

2. Transport and Storage

Instruments are transported in a non-sterile state, typically protected by these oils to prevent rust or damage. This is particularly common in regions like Pakistan, a major hub for surgical instrument manufacturing, where cost-effective oils such as Gun Oil are widely used.

3. Decontamination in HSSUs and CSSDs

Once instruments reach hospitals, the real care begins. In Hospital Sterile Supply Units (HSSUs) or Central Sterile Services Departments (CSSDs), instruments are meticulously cleaned, decontaminated, and sterilised. Any temporary transport oils are removed during this process.

4. Lubrication for Functionality

After cleaning, medical-grade lubricants, such as Belimed Protect™ CARE Lubricant WD or Dr. Schumacher’s special oil spray, are applied to ensure smooth operation of hinges, box joints, and serrated edges. These lubricants are specifically designed to be biocompatible and steam-penetrable, meeting strict healthcare standards.

5. Sterilisation and Patient Use

Finally, instruments are sterilised, packed, and prepared for use in surgical procedures, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety and functionality.

The Role of Lubricants at Each Stage

During manufacturing and transport, oils like WD-40 or Gun Oil can provide temporary corrosion protection. However, these oils are not biocompatible and must be thoroughly removed before instruments are used in surgical settings. They serve only as a temporary measure to protect against rust and wear during transport and storage. In HSSU and CSSD departments, water-soluble, medical-grade lubricants like Belimed Protect™ CARE Lubricant WD or others tested for sterilisability and compatibility with steam sterilisation processes are used. These lubricants ensure smooth instrument operation and are specifically designed to penetrate moving parts without leaving harmful residues.

Why WD-40 and Gun Oil Are Not Suitable for Patient-Ready Instruments

While oils like WD-40 and Gun Oil play a valuable role in the manufacturing and transport stages, they are unsuitable for patient-ready instruments. These products are not designed for medical use and lack the necessary certifications for biocompatibility. They may leave residues that interfere with sterilisation and are not steam-penetrable, potentially compromising instrument sterility. Instead, medical-grade lubricants should be used once instruments enter healthcare settings to ensure compliance with safety and sterility standards.

Conclusion

Choosing the right lubricant for surgical instruments is essential to maintaining their functionality and safety at every stage of their lifecycle. From manufacturing oils used for transport to medical-grade lubricants applied in healthcare facilities, each type serves a distinct purpose. By understanding this process, Scala Surgical aims to serve as a knowledge hub for the surgical instruments industry, supporting manufacturers, suppliers, and healthcare providers in delivering the highest standards of care.

Let us know if you have further questions or if you’d like Scala Surgical to address another important topic in the industry. Together, we can ensure surgical instruments meet the demands of modern healthcare.