Tech in Surgery Prep / Unit 12 TSC 280 worked example, 60 to 90 seconds
Knife Handles and Blades
The idea
A scalpel is a blade and a handle, and surgeons usually ask for it by its blade number.
In practice
Learn the common combinations. First, the number ten blade is curved and large, used for long skin incisions and cutting tissue. Second, the number eleven blade has a pointed tip, used for precise stab incisions. Third, the number fifteen blade is a smaller curved blade for short, fine incisions. Fourth, the number three handle commonly carries a number ten blade and also accepts the eleven and fifteen; a long number three handle reaches deeper. Fifth, the number seven handle is thinner, used for deep or narrow spaces, and is often loaded with an eleven or fifteen. Sets often include two knives: one for the skin and a second, clean one for deeper work.
Where people slip
Hearing a blade number tells you the kind of cut that is coming. A request for a number eleven usually means a stab incision, so have it ready with the handle oriented for the surgeon.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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