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Our surgical teams had a wide range of implements to choose from - some high tech, some fairly primitive. Take a look at some of the tools used in life-changing surgery.
Annuloplasty ring
This semi-rigid ring is used to strengthen the mitral valve and prevent it from buckling into the wrong position.
Camera
This lightweight camera attaches to the telescope and is used during laparoscopic surgery.
Denver Wells retractor
After opening the chest, it is kept open with a Denver Wells retractor. This contraption was invented by Mr Francis Wells who performed open heart surgery live.
Heart lung machine
This machine is used to temporarily take over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery. It adds oxygen to the blood and maintains the circulation around the body during the period that the heart is stopped.
A range of laparoscopic graspers
These are used by the surgeon to grasp abdominal tissue. They can be rotated and manipulated at the handles.
Laparoscopic scissors
Laparoscopic scissors are used by the surgeon during dissection, they are curved and are used to dissect and cut tissue.
Neuronavigation system
This computer takes 2D MRI scans to produce 3D models of the head and tumour, allowing the surgeon to see where they are in the brain at all times during surgery.
Saw
A serrated saw is used to cut through the sternum and expose the heart, before open heart surgery.
Telescope
All laparoscopic procedures require a telescope to which a light source and a camera can be attached.
Telescopic camera
A tiny camera is sometimes used to help give the surgeon a better visual field.
Ancient and modern surgical tools
While a lot of the surgical tools used in modern surgery are state of the art, some tools have changed very little over the millennia. Below the ancient tools are on the left, while the modern tools are on the right.
You can see more surgical instruments modern medical devices at Wellcome Collection in London.
