Surgical procedures for feline sterilization necessitate the use of meticulously sterilized instruments to prevent infection and ensure patient safety. These instruments include, but are not limited to, hemostats for clamping blood vessels, scalpel blades for making incisions, suture needles and needle holders for closing the incision, and tissue forceps for manipulating tissues. The sterilization process aims to eliminate all microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and spores, from the surface of these tools.
Proper instrument sterilization is paramount in veterinary medicine. It directly impacts the success rate of the spay procedure, reducing the risk of post-operative complications such as surgical site infections and peritonitis. Historically, inadequate sterilization practices contributed to higher morbidity and mortality rates in veterinary surgery. Modern sterilization techniques, combined with strict adherence to protocols, have significantly improved patient outcomes.