A wound closure system comprises a forceps including first and second legs adapted to close into a proximate position in response to a squeezing force applied to the forceps. The forceps also includes a ratchet strip connected to the second leg and passing through an opening in the first leg. The lower edge of the opening is formed as a ratchet pawl for engaging the ratchet strip, thereby providing a ratchet mechanism. Engaging the ratchet mechanism maintains the proximate position of the forceps rotation of the ratchet strip about the hinge causes it to move upward, thereby disengaging the ratchet mechanism. The forceps may also include a safety latch connected to the first leg by a hinge. Rotation of the safety latch about the hinge inserts a portion of the safety latch into the opening to contact the ratchet strip and thereby prevent disengaging of the ratchet mechanism.
