What do the numbers on surgical blades mean?
The number on a scalpel is an indication of its size and shape. In simple words, it is a shorthand code to label the characteristics of a blade. The numbering system dates back to 1915 when Morgan Parker and Charles Russell Brand patented the two-piece design of handle and blade.
What scalpel handle holds a 20 blade?
20 is a large version of the No. 10 blade with a curved cutting edge and a flat, unsharpened back edge. Used for orthopaedic and general surgical procedures it fits handle No. 4, 4L, 4 Graduated & 6B.
What blade is used for surgery?
A scalpel is a bladed surgical instrument used to make cuts into the body. This is a very sharp instrument and comes in various sizes for different types of cuts and surgeries. Most blades are made of either carbon or stainless (medical grade) steel (Fig. 6.1).
How do I know what size surgical blade I need?
Surgical blade numbers
- Blade #11 – Straignt and Pointed like number “1”
- Blade #12 – Edge is curved like number “2”
- Blade #15 – Edge is curved like alphabet “S” or number “5”
- Blade #10 – The edge or belly is round like number “0”
- Blade #20, 21 – This is like Blade #10 but larger in size.
What is the number of the top surgical blade?
The No. 15 blade has a small curved cutting edge and is the most popular blade shape ideal for making short and precise incisions. It is utilised in a variety of surgical procedures including the excision of a skin lesion or recurrent sebaceous cyst and for opening coronary arteries.
What is a 25 blade used for?
Surgical scalpels
| Blade No. | Compatible Handles | Uses |
|---|---|---|
| No. 24 | 4, 4 Graduated, 4 Long, 6 | For corner cuts, trimming, stripping, and cutting mats and gaskets |
| No. 25 | 4, 4 Graduated, 4 Long, 6 | |
| No. 25a | 4, 4 Graduated, 4 Long, 6 | |
| No. 26 | 4, 4 Graduated, 4 Long, 6 |
What is a 15 blade used for?
15 blade has a small curved cutting edge and is the most popular blade shape ideal for making short and precise incisions. It is utilised in a variety of surgical procedures including the excision of a skin lesion or recurrent sebaceous cyst and for opening coronary arteries.
What is a 10 blade in surgery?
Number 10 scalpel blade: This blade possesses a distinct curved cutting edge and is used generally for making smaller incisions in skin and muscle.