A cesarean delivery moves fast, so the surgical team lays out every primary instrument on one tray before the first incision. This guide explains which forceps and retractors are used during a C-section and what each one does. If you are equipping an OB/GYN department, all of the instruments below come together in our 21-piece c-section instrument set.

Forceps Used in a C-Section

Three forceps patterns do most of the work during a cesarean:

  • Tissue Forceps 1x2, 8" – a secure grip on the fascia and uterine wall.
  • Allis Tissue Forceps 5x6, 7.5" – firm, atraumatic holding of tissue edges.
  • Roch-Pean Forceps, curved, 6.25" – clamping vessels and controlling bleeding (hemostasis).

Foerster Sponge Forceps complete the lineup, used for swabbing and handling sponges in the surgical field.

Note: obstetrical delivery forceps (such as Simpson or Kielland patterns) are used for assisted vaginal births and are occasionally needed to guide the baby's head during a cesarean, but they are separate from the core C-section tray.

Retractors Used in a C-Section

Good exposure of the lower uterine segment depends on two retractors:

  • DeLee Universal Retractor, 2.75" x 2" – holds back the bladder flap and lower abdominal wall while the baby is delivered.
  • Jackson Retractor, medium blade – retracts the abdominal wall layers for a clear view of the uterus.

Scissors and Needle Holders for Incision and Closure

Operating scissors and Mayo dissecting scissors handle the incision and fascial dissection. Heaney needle holders give the surgeon a controlled grip for closing the uterine and abdominal layers.

Buying a Complete C-Section Tray

Buying instruments one by one leaves gaps. Our c-section instrument set includes all 21 pieces on a covered stainless steel tray, made in ISO 13485 and CE-certified manufacturing with a 3-year guarantee. Bulk and tender pricing is available for hospitals, clinics and distributors. For routine births, see the vaginal delivery instrument set, or browse the full OB/GYN instrument range.