Historical information

This is a destructive instrument. Perforators were used to pierce and empty the skull in a craniotomy (which is a form of embryotomy). A craniotomy is a procedure whereby "a perforation is made in the foetal skull to reduce the volume of the foetal head which prevents delivery."
(Source: Medecins Sans Frontieres, 'MSF medical guidelines - Essential obstetric and newborn care - 9.7 Embryotomy'')

Significance

This instrument was included with other obstetric instruments, mostly destructive instruments, given to RANZCOG from Box Hill Hospital labour ward in February- March 1998. The maternity service at Box Hill Hospital combined with St George's Hospital in Kew to be known as Birralee Maternity Service. These instruments were collected by Julie Collette, Unit Manager, St George's Kew and given to RANZCOG Museum Curator, Susan Barnett.

Physical description

Simpson's perforator. Stainless steel perforator with fluted handles. Various inscriptions: "ALLEN & HANBURYS LTD/ENGLAND S.S.ut" on shaft, "12" on inner surface of hinged brace, "B.H.H.L. Ward" on inner shaft of blade.

Inscriptions & markings

"B.H.H.L. Ward"