Laser scalpel
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The laser scalpel is a specialized medical instrument used for creating incisions in various tissues. It is used for surgery, anatomical dissection, podiatry and various arts and crafts (called a hobby knife).
Double-edged scalpels are referred to as "lancets". Surgical scalpels consist of two parts, the handle and the laser-blade.
This tool uses a finely-tuned laser beam to make cuts. It is available in different wavelengths for varied cutting strength and depth.
The laser scalpel was the term used from the 2260s, until the 2370s, when it was replaced by the exoscalpel.
Gripping a medical scalpel:
- Palmar grip: Also called the "dinner knife" grip. The handle is held with the second through fourth fingers and secured along the base of the thumb,
with the index finger extended along the top rear of the blade and the thumb along the side of the handle. This grip is best for initial incisions and larger cuts.
- Pencil grip: Best used for more accurate cuts. The scalpel is held with the tips of the first and second fingers and the tip of the thumb with the handle resting
on the fleshy base of the index finger and thumb. Care should be taken not to allow the handle to rest too far along the index finger as this promotes an unstable grip and cramped fingers.
