A 6" ball-type towel clip, or ball-and-socket towel clamp, is a surgical instrument used to secure surgical drapes and towels, maintain a sterile field, and hold other equipment like suction lines or cables in place during a procedure. Its primary use is to keep the operating site exposed and protected from contamination by creating a firm, adjustable grip that is reusable and can be sterilized.

Securing surgical drapes and towels:

The clamp holds drapes or towels to the patient's skin, creating a sterile and defined surgical field.

Maintaining sterility:

By securing the drapes, it prevents them from shifting or slipping, which reduces the risk of infection and keeps the sterile environment intact.

Holding other equipment:

The clip can also be used to hold things like suction lines, electrocautery cables, or other power equipment lines during a procedure.