Surgical Gloves

Surgical gloves are typically powder-free, as powder can be irritating to the patient’s tissues and can also interfere with the healing process. Surgical gloves are also designed to be very thin and sensitive, so that the surgeon can have the best possible dexterity.

Here are some of the important features of surgical gloves:

• Sterility: Surgical gloves are sterile to prevent the introduction of bacteria into the surgical site.
• Puncture resistance: Surgical gloves are puncture-resistant to protect the wearer from sharps exposure.
• Chemical resistance: Surgical gloves are resistant to chemicals used in the operating room, such as disinfectants and antiseptics.
• Dexterity: Surgical gloves are thin and sensitive to allow the surgeon to have the best possible dexterity.
• Hypoallergenic: Surgical gloves are made of hypoallergenic materials to reduce the risk of allergic reaction

Powdered vs. Powder-Free

• Powdered: Previously used to make gloves easier to don and remove, but less common due to risks of allergic reactions and contamination.
• Powder-Free: Treated with a coating (e.g., polymer, chlorination) to provide slip-on ease without powder, minimizing allergic and contamination risks.

Sterility

• Sterile: Used in surgical settings where strict hygiene is essential. These gloves are packaged individually to ensure they remain free from contaminants.
• Non-Sterile: Suitable for non-surgical tasks where high sterility isn’t critical.

Thickness and Sensitivity

• Thin Gloves (3-5 mil): High tactile sensitivity, often chosen for precise, detailed tasks in surgery.
• Thicker Gloves (7-8 mil): Enhanced durability and protection, though some tactile sensitivity may be sacrificed.

Usage

General surgery, Orthopedic surgery, Cardiovascular surgery, Neurosurgery, Pediatric surgery, Gynecological surgery, Plastic surgery, Ophthalmic surgery, Otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat surgery), Urology, Dentistry.