The tonsil punch is a solid metal object; one end consists of two finger grips, oval shaped and closed; a metal arm extends from each; the inside of each arm is flat, the outside is rounded, but angled so that the flat insides and the outsides create a rounded triangle; the arms extend angled inwar…
The tonsil punch is a solid metal object; one end consists of two finger grips, oval shaped and closed; a metal arm extends from each; the inside of each arm is flat, the outside is rounded, but angled so that the flat insides and the outsides create a rounded triangle; the arms extend angled inwards and meet just before the midpoint; one arm becomes the main component of the instrument, and the other is joined to it by a metal joint; at this point the arms are melded together, and bend at approximately a 10° angle; a very thin line can be seen between the arms towards the punching end; a clip of thin metal, which is movable, extends from the corner of the angle; the arms taper, then flare slightly towards the punching end; the arms end, one with a joint that attaches the lower, movable smaller part of the punching component, the other bends to form a metal loop with an oval hole that is shaped to fit the smaller punching component; a thin disk is partially visible through a small groove in the outside of the larger piece; this disk facilitates the operation of the punching mechanism.
Number Of Parts
1
Provenance
Originally owned by Dr. Publow, who practised in Prince Edward County between 1850 and 1900. Given to Dr. M. Williams, head of Otolaryngology at Queen's University.
"V. Mueller & Co." stamped into the metal on the outside of the larger arm, just before the joint; the number "3" is stamped into the metal on the flat inside surface of each arm just before the joint.
Permanent Location
Storage Room 0010
0010-E3-6
Dimension Notes
Length 20.0 cm x Width 9.0 cm x Depth 0.5 cm
Condition Remarks
The nickel plating is flaking significantly, particularly on the insides of the arms near the finger grips, as well as along the rims of the grips; however, there is very little corrosion present, and the parts are still movable; the plating is also worn at the bend of the arms, around the clip and punching component; #2: rusty and chipped.
Copy Type
Original
Reference Types
Book
Person
JPG
Reference Comments
Dr. M. Williams; "Catalogue of Surgical Instruments and Appliances, Also of Aseptic Hospital Furniture" Down Bros. Ltd., 1906, pp. 308-309 (similar to item #1399) (see attached photocopies); CD #4.
Research Facts
Identified by Dr. Williams as Hartmann or Myles tonsil punch forceps
Exhibit History
On display at Hotel Dieu Hospital circa 1983-1993; the item was mounted on an acidic board with copper-covered wires to secure it.