Surgical Blades

Surgical Blades

A surgical blade, also known as a scalpel or lancet, is a small and exceptionally sharp instrument used in surgery, anatomical dissection, and various arts and crafts, commonly referred to as a hobby knife. Scalpels may be either single-use disposable or reusable.

Reusable scalpels may feature attached, resharpenable blades or, more frequently, non-attached, replaceable blades. Disposable scalpels typically consist of a plastic handle with a retractable blade, akin to a utility knife, and are utilized once before being discarded in their entirety.

Scalpel blades are typically individually packaged in sterile pouches, although non-sterile options are also available. Double-edged scalpels are commonly referred to as "lancets." These blades are crafted from materials such as hardened and tempered steel, stainless steel, or high carbon steel. Additionally, titanium, ceramic, diamond, and even obsidian knives are not uncommon.

In situations such as surgery conducted under MRI guidance, steel blades are unsuitable due to their magnetic properties, which can cause interference or image artifacts. Some manufacturers offer scalpel blades with a Zirconium Nitride-coated edge to enhance sharpness and edge retention, while others produce polymer-coated blades to improve lubricity during cutting. Surgical alternatives to scalpels include electrocautery and laser procedures.