the bifurcated forceps is a tweezers - like instrument having two elongate , flattened arms joined at their mutual proximal ends , and each arm extends to a distal end having two laterally separated tines extending therefrom . the mutually facing surfaces of the corresponding tines of each arm are provided with serrations or teeth along the majority of their lengths , the facing serrations meshing with one another . the bifurcated forceps may have laterally straight arms , or laterally curved arms . reusable forceps may be formed of surgical steel , and disposable forceps may be formed of a suitable plastic . the laterally separated tines enable the bifurcated forceps to grip a portion of tissue or other matter simultaneously at two separate points , thereby holding a greater span of the tissue clear of the underlying structure to facilitate surgical procedures and the like .