What material is used in the jaws of advanced surgical instruments for its hardness?

• A. Stainless steel
• B. Titanium
• C. Tungsten carbide
• D. Aluminum

Answer: (C)

The jaws of advanced surgical instruments are commonly made from tungsten carbide due to its exceptional hardness and wear resistance. This material can withstand the significant stress and repeated use that surgical instruments endure, maintaining their sharpness and precision over time. The hardness of tungsten carbide allows it to effectively grasp and manipulate tissue during surgical procedures, ensuring that the instruments perform reliably.

Stainless steel, although widely used in surgical instruments for its strength and resistance to corrosion, does not possess the same level of hardness as tungsten carbide. Titanium is valued for its lightweight properties and biocompatibility but is not as hard as tungsten carbide. Aluminum, while lightweight and easy to manipulate, lacks the hardness necessary for the jaws of instruments that require a fine precision grip and durability in high-stress surgical environments.