Mechanical and metallurgical properties of vascular clips designed for temporary use.

Six commonly used surgical clips (Kleinert-Kutz, Pivot, Vari-Angle, Yasargil, Biemer, and Acland) that have been designated by their manufacturer as being suitable for temporary occlusion were studied in terms of their mechanical and metallurgical properties. Opening and closing forces were determined for all of the clips. Significant variations in clip force with respect to blade gap were found in all of the pivot-type clips. Metallurgical testing showed that all six clips exhibited properties that contraindicate long-term implantation.