skalpell

A scalpel, known as a skalpell in several languages, is a small, highly sharp surgical instrument used for precise cutting of tissue. It typically comprises a handle and a detachable blade, which is replaced when dull or damaged. Handles may be metal or plastic; blades are usually stainless steel and disposable or sterilizable for reuse.

Blades come in several standard shapes and sizes. Common medical blades include numbers such as 10, 11, 12 and 15. The No. 10 blade has a broad edge for general skin incisions; No. 11 is slender and pointed for stab incisions; No. 12 has a curved edge for working around delicate contours; No. 15 is smaller and finer for precision work in confined areas. Many blades are designed for single use and are sold as sterile units.

Use and applications: scalpel blades are used for surgical incisions, tissue dissection, and preparation of specimens in pathology and anatomy. In ophthalmology, dermatology, and other specialties, smaller or specialized micro-scalpels may be used for delicate work.

Sterilization and safety: scalpels must be sterilized before use; disposable blades are packaged sterile. Reusable handles and blades require autoclaving or other approved sterilization. Sharp handling is essential to prevent injury; used blades should be disposed in appropriate sharps containers.

History and terminology: the term scalpel derives from the Latin scalpellus; modern scalpels evolved with disposable blades and standardized blade shapes in the 20th century to improve sterility and safety. In Norwegian and Swedish, skalpell is the term for scalpel.

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