Prichard #3/9A Periosteal Elevator Retractor #6 short handle

What is the Prichard #3/9A short #6 handle periosteal elevator-retractor?

The Prichard #3/9A periosteal elevator-retractor is a manual surgical instrument developed by the manufacturer Hu-Friedy. This device is characterized by a double working end mounted on a short-format number 6 handle. It belongs to the category of diagnostic and surgical instruments, designed to meet the requirements of oral surgery. Its structure allows for bimanual or alternating manipulation depending on the needs of the intervention. As a precision instrument, it is used to separate the periosteum from the bone and retract soft tissues to provide optimal visibility of the surgical field. This specific model combines two complementary shapes to adapt to different anatomical areas of the oral cavity.

What are the clinical indications for this Prichard retractor?

The Prichard retractor is primarily indicated in periodontal surgery, implant surgery, and general oral surgery procedures. Its use is essential when creating full-thickness flaps, where the practitioner must delicately detach the mucoperiosteum from the alveolar ridge. It is also used to keep soft tissues away during implant drilling or the placement of bone grafting materials. Its design allows for stable tissue retraction, thus protecting the flaps against accidental trauma related to the use of rotary instruments. This device is reserved exclusively for qualified healthcare professionals, in accordance with Hu-Friedy manufacturer guidelines.

What are the technical characteristics of this instrument?

This Hu-Friedy instrument features specific technical characteristics with a double termination identified under the reference #3/9A. The short number 6 handle is designed to offer a grip adapted to interventions requiring close proximity to the surgical site. Although the exact material composition is not specified in the source data, this Class I instrument meets the manufacturing standards of Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC. The #3 active part is generally used for initial elevation, while the #9A part allows for wider tissue retraction. The balance of the instrument is studied to minimize fatigue during prolonged oral surgery procedures.

What are the contraindications for the use of this dental elevator-retractor?

According to the information provided by the manufacturer Hu-Friedy, the use of this dental elevator-retractor is strictly reserved for healthcare professionals. Clinical contraindications are not explicitly detailed in the raw technical documentation, but the use of the instrument should be avoided in cases of extremely fragile or necrotic tissue where mechanical retraction could worsen the pathological state. As with any reusable surgical instrument, improper sterilization or a degraded state of the instrument (bending, corrosion) constitutes an absolute contraindication to its use. It is imperative to read the instructions for use carefully and respect aseptic protocols before any intervention.

What are the precautions for use for this non-resorbable instrument?

As it is a metallic surgical instrument and not an implantable device, the precautions for use mainly concern maintenance and handling. The practitioner must ensure not to exert excessive pressure on the bone or soft tissues to avoid any iatrogenic injury. Cleaning and sterilization must be carried out according to the rigorous instructions of the manufacturer Hu-Friedy to guarantee the longevity of the instrument and patient safety. It is recommended to visually inspect the #3 and #9A ends before each use to ensure the absence of micro-cracks or deformations. Storage must be in a dry and clean environment, in accordance with Class I medical device management standards.

Who is the manufacturer and what standards are respected?

The Prichard periosteal elevator-retractor is manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, located at 3232 N. Rockwell St. Chicago, Il 60618 USA. This medical device is classified as Class I according to current regulations. Although specific CE marking is not mentioned in the source data, the product meets the regulatory requirements applicable to surgical instruments in its category for use by healthcare professionals. Hu-Friedy is a recognized manufacturer in the dental sector for its rigorous manufacturing processes. Users are invited to consult the attached instructions to become aware of all warnings and maintenance protocols recommended by the American company.

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