A rod manipulator including power-base and various assemblies, interchangeably attaching to the base. The power-base is composed of a pneumatic cylinder and piston which affects the function of various assemblies. The piston moves the central component of an assembly toward the fixed portion of that assembly. A bending assembly containing mobile pivots around which a surgical metal rod can be bent. A cutting assembly containing blades in central and fixed portions between which a surgical metal rod can be cut. The distal end of the cut rod is retained by replaceable, sterilizable, eject-grips during and immediately after the cutting operation. The general object of the invention is to provide an improved surgical rod cutter and surgical rod bender, capable of performing both tasks with one power source, requires one-person operation, eliminates the need for significant muscular forces and eliminates the opportunity for an unsafe projectile in the operating room.