Henke Enucleator

Description

Henke Enucleator

The Henke enucleator is a tonsil instrument for freeing the tonsil from its bed. Surgeons use the Henke enucleator to work around the capsule and lift the tonsil out.

Enucleating the tonsil

Enucleation means shelling the tonsil out in one piece. Therefore, the surgeon works along the capsule and separates it from the muscle. The Henke tip helps with that separation.

Two sizes

We offer sizes of 10.5 x 5 mm and 16 x 5 mm. Our listing gives these as the size of the working end. The smaller size may suit smaller tonsils, while the larger covers more ground.

In the tonsil sequence

First, the surgeon opens the mucosa at the upper pole. Then the Henke enucleator follows the capsule down. Finally, the lower pole comes free with a snare or knife.

Picking a size

If you treat a wide range of patients, then both sizes may earn a place on the tray. However, a pediatric service may lean toward the smaller size. Ask us for photos to compare.

Caring for the Henke

Clean the working end right after surgery, before tissue dries. Then brush it under running water. Finally, dry the instrument and sterilize it.

Henke specifications

• Henke-pattern tonsil instrument
• Working end: 10.5 x 5 mm or 16 x 5 mm
• Stainless steel

Ordering Henke sizes

Both Henke sizes carry our three-year warranty against faults caused by workmanship. Also, someone in our Atlanta office hand-checks the tip before shipping. The FAQ with order details answers most questions. For Henke steel, we refer to ASTM F899. For a blunt dissector with a longer reach, see the Lopez-Reinke dissector. Our ENT instruments hub lists more.

These suit professional users only. Our instrument care explainer covers enucleator photos and nickel in steel, and our policy on returns covers exchanges.