Quick Answer: A bivalve rectal speculum is an instrument with two blades that are inserted closed and then opened to spread the walls of the anal canal. It is used for examination and minor procedures, and in teaching for instrument identification and model-based practice.
How the Two Blades Work
‘Specula’ in the listing title is the plural of speculum. This instrument carries two blades on hinged or sliding arms. They are inserted closed, then opened by squeezing the handles or turning a screw, and many patterns have a lock or thumb screw to hold them at the chosen width. Named patterns include the Pratt.
Two blades give a wider, adjustable field than a tubular instrument, and the open sides let the examiner see a larger area of the wall. The tubular proctoscope with obturator remains the simpler choice for routine inspection. The listing does not state the pattern, blade length or lock type.
For teaching, the speculum is used on rectal examination models, where students practise inserting it closed and lubricated, opening it slowly and inspecting systematically before closing it again for withdrawal.
Specifications
| Item | Rectal speculum, bivalve |
| Blades | Two, opened after insertion |
| Adjustment | Handle squeeze with lock, or thumb screw, depending on pattern |
| Named patterns | For example Pratt |
| Pattern and blade length | Confirm at enquiry |
Applications
- Instrument identification for surgery and nursing students
- Practising anorectal examination on skills-lab models
- Comparing tubular and bladed instruments in examination teaching
- Preparing minor-procedure trays in OT technician training
Care & Handling
- Open the speculum fully for cleaning so the hinge, screw and inner blade surfaces can be brushed.
- Sterilise or disinfect as the material allows and dry thoroughly.
- Check that the blades close flush; a gap between closed blades can pinch tissue.
Why Choose LabEquip
Surgical departments, nursing colleges and skills centres buy bivalve specula together with proctoscopes when setting up anorectal examination teaching. LabEquip lists the item for teaching use in its Biology Lab Products range; describe the pattern and quantity on the contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does bi-valve mean for a speculum?
It has two blades, or valves, that open apart after insertion. This spreads the canal walls to give a view of the area between them.
When is a bivalve speculum used instead of a proctoscope?
When a wider or adjustable field is needed, such as for minor procedures in the anal canal. For routine inspection, the tubular proctoscope is simpler.
How should it be inserted on a model?
Closed and lubricated, with the blades aligned along the canal, then opened slowly to the width needed. Close it again before withdrawal.
What is the lock for?
It holds the blades at a set opening so the examiner’s hand can relax, and the view stays steady.
How is the instrument cleaned?
Open it fully, brush the blades, hinge and screw, then sterilise or disinfect and dry before storing.
Who uses this instrument in training?
Surgery and nursing students, OT technicians preparing trays, and trainees learning anorectal examination on skills-lab models.
Last Updated: September 2026
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