Penfield Dissectors — Pattern and Clinical Use
The Penfield set is used as a graded sequence rather than as individual instruments. No. 1 has a flat blade and a curved end for general dissection, No. 2 a broader blade, No. 3 a sharper spatula edge, No. 4 a fine curved probe for delicate separation such as dural work, and No. 5 a double-ended blunt pattern. Surgeons call for them by number, so a set is only useful complete.
Because the numbers correspond to specific working-end geometry, dimensional consistency to the standard pattern matters more than on most instruments — a No. 4 that is not shaped like a No. 4 is not usable as one.
Penfield Dissectors Variants and Specifications
The standard numbered Penfield set.
| Number | Working end / use |
|---|---|
| No. 1 | Flat blade and curved end; general dissection |
| No. 2 | Broader flat blade |
| No. 3 | Sharper spatula edge |
| No. 4 | Fine curved probe; dural separation |
| No. 5 | Double-ended blunt dissector |
| Complete set of five | Standard ordering unit |
Material, Finish and Quality Control
We forge Penfield dissectors from 316L austenitic stainless. Working-end geometry is gauged against the standard pattern for each number, since surgeons call for them by number and expect a defined shape. Each batch passes Rockwell hardness testing, dimensional checks on working-end geometry to numbered pattern, and visual inspection under our ISO 13485 system before passivation and final finishing. Mirror and satin finishes are both available — satin is usually specified where glare under operating lights is a concern.
Who Sources Penfield Dissectors From Surgical Star
Penfield dissectors sell as complete numbered sets to neurosurgical and spinal distributors, and set completeness is essential because surgeons request them by number.
OEM, Certification and Ordering
Every Penfield dissectors can be produced as a private-label line: your logo laser-marked on the shaft, your catalog numbers, and your own printed packaging, manufactured from your drawings or a reference sample. Manufactured under an ISO 13485 quality system, CE-marked to EU MDR 2017/745 and covered by US FDA establishment registration. A certificate of conformity and an ASTM F899 material certificate for the exact steel grade ship with your order.
MOQs are low and new-brand friendly, and vary with pattern, finish and branding. Pricing is direct from the factory and tiered by volume. After you approve a branded pre-production sample, bulk production typically runs four to six weeks and ships worldwide DDP with HS codes handled. See how OEM & private label works →
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Penfield numbers?
Each number has a specific working-end geometry — No. 1 flat with a curved end, No. 4 a fine curved probe for dural work, and so on. Surgeons call for them by number.
Should we sell them individually?
Sets are the normal unit because the numbers work as a sequence, though individual replacements are worth stocking since the No. 4 is used most and lost most.
Are they used outside neurosurgery?
Yes, widely in spinal surgery and to some extent in ENT and orthopedic work where fine blunt dissection is needed.
Can you manufacture these under our own brand?
Yes — full OEM and private label. We laser-mark your logo and catalog numbers, pack in your branded boxes, and work from your drawings, tech pack or a reference sample, with a pre-production sample approved before any bulk run.
Send your pattern list, drawing or a reference sample and we’ll quote MOQ, pricing and lead time — standard catalog or fully private-label.
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