Know Your Blades — and Handle Them with Care

None of these blades are correct 😅 Just look and laugh

Every blade in the OR has a purpose — and knowing which is which isn’t just about passing instruments; it’s about understanding why each one is used and when.

• #10: The workhorse. This is the most frequently used blade and usually the one used to make the first incision in an open case.

• #11: Designed for precision punctures. I’ve seen this one used often in endoscopic procedures.

• #12: Rarely used in my own experience, but traditionally known for its exclusive use in tonsillectomies.

• #15: The “fine touch” blade. It’s typically used for delicate work — plastic surgery, smaller incisions, or laparoscopic cases. I use this one often when finesse matters.

But here’s the real gem:

Knowing the blades is only part of the job. Knowing how to handle them safely is what sets you apart. Blades can get stuck. They can slip. They can compromise your back table setup if you’re not careful. I always unload mine pointing downward, over a reinforced area I’ve set up just for this — a folded drape, tucked neatly to absorb any slips. It protects my instruments, my setup, and most importantly, the patient.

It’s a small detail. But in surgery, small details matter most.