Which instrument is best for cutting 7-0 nylon suture?

The best instrument for cutting 7-0 nylon suture is straight iris scissors. Iris scissors are designed specifically for precision and fine work, making them particularly suitable for cutting delicate materials such as sutures. Their small, thin blades allow for accurate control and minimize the risk of damaging surrounding tissues.

When cutting very fine suture material like 7-0 nylon, it's crucial to use scissors that can navigate comfortably in small spaces while providing a clean cut. The design of iris scissors, with their sharp tips and fine construction, makes them ideal for this purpose.

In contrast, other scissors options such as straight Mayo scissors are generally used for heavier tissues and may not provide the level of precision required for fine sutures. Curved Metzenbaum scissors are typically employed for cutting soft tissue; their design is not optimal for cutting the thin, delicate nylon suture. Curved Stevens tenotomy scissors are also used for very specific tasks, like cutting tissues in ophthalmic procedures, but they are less suited for straightforward suture cutting compared to iris scissors.