The classification, types and characteristics of surgical instruments were summarized. The effects of traditional surface modification technologies, such as low-temperature ion nitriding and ion implantation, on the surface properties of materials were emphatically reviewed. Meanwhile, several typical surgical instruments, such as primer and hemostasis, were taken as the objects to discuss the problems existing in several main mechanisms, including corrosion failure, fracture failure and clamping force instability caused by ratchet wear of pliers, and the necessity of surface repair from the aspects of using circumstance, mechanism of action, failure modes, etc. Based on this, the repairability and service life extension of a large quantity and a wide range of common surgical instruments and high-precision and sophisticated medical instruments were discussed respectively. The characteristics of the two instruments, the scientific problems in the repair process and the current repair methods at home and abroad were specifically analyzed. Thus, the requirements and economic benefits of repairing common surgical instruments with low cost and precision medical instruments with high reliability were explained. The significance and importance of carrying out research on medical instrument damage and surface treatment are further proposed.