In a hand-held instrument, which part comes into direct contact with the patient?

The jaw of a hand-held instrument is the part that comes into direct contact with the patient. This is significant because the jaws are responsible for grasping, holding, or manipulating tissues during surgical procedures. They need to be designed for optimal functionality and cleanliness, as they are the primary interface between the instrument and the patient’s body.

The other parts mentioned, such as the box lock, finger rings, and shank, serve different roles. The box lock is a pivot point that helps open and close the instrument, while the finger rings provide a grip for the surgeon or technician to hold the instrument comfortably. The shank connects the jaw to the finger rings but does not directly interact with the patient. Understanding the function of each component is crucial for safe and effective use of surgical instruments.