Rongeur

A rongeur is a robust, plier-like surgical instrument designed for gouging out bone or dense tissue, featuring sharp-edged, scoop-shaped jaws. The term originates from the French word for “gnawer,” reflecting its primary function of removing small bone fragments with precision. Commonly constructed from surgical-grade stainless steel, rongeurs often feature single-, double-, or multi-action joints that enhance their cutting force through increased mechanical leverage. These instruments are essential in various surgical fields, including orthopedics, neurosurgery, spinal procedures, maxillofacial surgery, and hand surgery. Specialized variants—such as Kerrison, Leksell, Ruskin, and Cushing rongeurs—are tailored for specific tasks like spinal decompression, bone reshaping, or alveolar bone removal. Their jaws may be straight, curved, fenestrated, or angled to access hard-to-reach areas, and they are designed for precise, clean removal of bone or tissue. Rongeurs require meticulous care, including regular cleaning, sharpening, and sterilization, to maintain performance and hygiene. Their versatility and efficiency make them a vital tool in both surgical practice and anatomical dissection.