What materials are primarily used in the creation of ophthalmic surgical instruments?

The primary materials used in the creation of ophthalmic surgical instruments are surgical stainless steel and/or titanium. Surgical stainless steel is favored due to its exceptional strength, resistance to corrosion, and ease of sterilization, making it ideal for instruments that must withstand repeated use and sterilization methods. Titanium is also commonly used because it is lightweight, strong, and biocompatible, which is critical for surgical applications where minimizing tissue reaction is important. These properties ensure that ophthalmic instruments remain durable, effective, and safe for use in delicate eye surgeries.

The other materials listed do not meet the rigorous demands of surgical instruments. Plastic and aluminum may be suitable for certain disposable tools or non-surgical items but lack the necessary durability and sterility. Wood and glass are not practical due to their fragility and inability to withstand the sterilization processes required for surgical tools. Carbon steel and copper, while useful in some contexts, are also less ideal due to susceptibility to rust and corrosion compared to stainless steel and titanium.