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Microsurgical instruments are highly refined to permit accurate and precise use, and are very fragile and prone to damage. Storage trays for microsurgical instruments are lined with rubber pads with finger‐like projections that softly and securely grip instruments for safe placement and storage or are equipped with slots for each instrument. Storage trays are sterilizable. Be sure to return instruments to the protective pad of the storage tray even during surgery when they are not in immediate use. Use microsurgical instruments appropriately and as indicated and not for grasping or cutting thick or tough tissues, needles, or suture larger than 5‐0 USP.

When cleaning instruments, pick up microsurgical instruments one at a time. Rinse instruments with distilled water or according to manufacturer’s instructions, and gently remove organic debris with a microsurgical brush. Place instruments in a single layer in an ultrasonic cleaner with enzymatic detergent after each use. Never allow instruments to soak overnight in water or the ultrasonic cleaner. Always remove them promptly after the cycle is finished and allow them to air‐dry on an absorbent drying pad in an open position to prevent rusting of the joints and box‐lock mechanisms. Once the instruments are dry, carefully return them to the storage tray. Wrap the tray for steam sterilization in an autoclave. Most manufacturers do not recommend sterilization in a plasma sterilizer.

Assess instruments for damage before each use. Check with magnification to be certain the tips of needle holders and forceps and blades of scissors meet exactly. Never attempt to operate with a misshapen or damaged instrument. Return broken instruments to the manufacturer or to a service professional for repair or discard them. Use caution and care when using instruments as dropping a microsurgical instrument on its tip from a height as little as 2–3 cm can damage the instrument irrevocably and result in costly losses. Although microsurgical instruments can be expensive, proper care and use will ensure these instruments are an integral part of your exotic animal surgical equipment for many years.