Disposable Surgical Cotton Hand Towel: Function and Application

Disposable surgical cotton hand towels are essential sterile barriers used primarily for moisture management within the surgical field.  Their core function is to absorb fluids—such as blood, saline, and irrigation liquids—to maintain a dry and visible operative site, which is crucial for surgical precision and preventing infection.

These medical towels are applied to define and protect the sterile field by "squaring off" the incision area.  They channel fluids away from the patient and prevent contamination of instruments and gloves.  Made from absorbent, low-linting materials often with a cotton blend, they ensure no particulate residue is left in the wound.  A key safety feature is the radio-opaque marker, allowing detection via X-ray if accidentally retained.

The disposable nature of OR towel guarantees sterility, eliminates cross-contamination risks from laundering, and offers convenience, making them a standard for maintaining aseptic conditions in operating rooms.