Abstract: The forceps comprises clamping jaws which may be actuated clampwise by means of grips. One side edge of a first clamping jaw is in form of a cutting edge. On the side of the other clamping jaw lies a cutting blade which may cooperate with the cutting edge of the first clamping jaw for cutting the tissue clamped between the clamping jaws. The rest position of the cutting blade is determined by a catching device. The cutting blade engages below a protecting ramp in this catching device when the forceps is open. The forceps permits an easy, rational and proper working whereby injuries by uncontrollable and inadvertent motion of the cutting blade are excluded.