A Gigli saw is a flexible, serrated wire saw widely used in surgical procedures for cutting bone with precision and minimal trauma. Despite being invented in the late 19th century, the Gigli saw remains relevant today—especially in orthopedic, neurosurgical, and amputation procedures—due to its reliability, simplicity, and effectiveness in tight or hard-to-reach areas.

What Is a Gigli Saw?

A Gigli saw consists of a twisted stainless-steel wire with cutting serrations along its length. The saw is typically used with handles at each end, allowing surgeons to create smooth, controlled back-and-forth movements. Its flexible structure makes it ideal for circular or angled cuts where rigid saws cannot reach.

Key Features of a Gigli Saw

1. Flexibility

The saw’s wire design makes it easy to maneuver around bone, especially in confined surgical spaces.

2. Precise Cutting

Its serrated edges provide clean bone cuts with minimal splintering.

3. Lightweight and Portable

Compact and easy to sterilize, the Gigli saw is a reliable tool in emergency and field surgeries.

4. Versatility

Used in orthopedic surgery, obstetrics, and even veterinary practice.

Common Uses of the Gigli Saw

1. Amputations

One of the classic applications, allowing smooth bone cuts while minimizing soft-tissue damage.

2. Craniotomy Procedures

Surgeons use a Gigli saw to cut sections of the skull with great control.

3. Orthopedic Surgeries

Helpful in removing bone segments, shaping bone, or performing osteotomies.

4. Veterinary Medicine

Vets use Gigli saws for similar procedures on animals due to its accuracy and maneuverability.

How a Gigli Saw Works

The saw is placed around the bone using a guide such as a probe or passer. Once positioned, handles at each end allow the surgeon to perform quick reciprocating motions. This movement enables controlled cutting with little risk of overheating the bone—an advantage over powered saws.

Advantages of Using a Gigli Saw

• Cost-effective compared to power tools

• Low risk of bone damage due to controlled manual cutting

• No electricity needed, making it ideal for remote or battlefield surgeries

• Highly maneuverable in complex surgical sites

Limitations to Consider

While the Gigli saw is versatile, it also has limitations:

• Requires manual effort

• Not suitable for extremely thick bone

• May generate metal debris if overused

• Slower than power saws

Despite these limitations, the tool remains essential in both modern and emergency surgical settings.

Why the Gigli Saw Is Still Relevant Today

Although advanced power tools dominate operating rooms, the Gigli saw remains a trusted backup tool due to its simplicity and reliability. It plays a critical role in trauma surgery, resource-limited hospitals, field operations, and veterinary practice, proving that even classic instruments continue to have modern value.

Conclusion

The Gigli saw is a time-tested surgical instrument known for its precision, flexibility, and effectiveness in bone-cutting procedures. Whether used in orthopedic surgery, craniotomies, amputations, or veterinary care, it continues to be an essential tool for surgeons worldwide.