Auvard Zweifel Cranioclast 42cm

Clinical Application

Designed for use in obstetric craniotomy and other destructive procedures performed in the management of obstructed labour when the fetus is nonviable and operative vaginal delivery or cesarean section is not indicated or feasible. The instrument provides controlled crushing of the fetal skull to reduce head size for extraction in advanced, complicated deliveries. Use is limited to experienced obstetricians or surgeons trained in destructive procedures and is typically confined to tertiary referral centres and operating theatre settings where appropriate patient selection and consent procedures are followed.

Design & Configuration

The long 42 cm shaft affords extended reach into the birth canal, enabling access in deep pelvic deliveries while keeping the operator's hands clear of the perineum. Heavy jaws with a dedicated crushing geometry and a locking ratchet deliver the mechanical advantage and sustained force required to collapse the cranial vault safely and predictably. The handle length and leverage are balanced to permit controlled application of force and secure retention of the skull during extraction.

Instrument Specifications

• Instrument type: Cranioclast
• Pattern / model: Auvard Zweifel
• Configuration: Long-handled crushing forceps with locking ratchet
• Length: 42 cm
• Tip / jaw pattern: Heavy crushing jaws for fetal skull collapse
• Typical surgical use: Obstetric craniotomy and destructive procedures in obstructed labour
• Reusable: Yes

Material & Construction

Manufactured from surgical-grade stainless steel to resist corrosion and withstand repeated hospital decontamination and sterilization cycles. Robust jaw construction and a secure ratchet locking mechanism are designed for dependable mechanical performance and tactile feedback during controlled crushing procedures.

Quality & Compliance

Manufactured by FDA-registered OEM facilities and produced under strict quality control standards.

Brand Comparison

Comparable in form and function to equivalent instruments offered by major US medical suppliers.

Availability & Returns

• In-stock lead time: ships within ~1 week
• Out-of-stock lead time: 2–4 weeks
• Returns: 30-day return policy