VIDEO: How to Choose a Scalpel Blade for Your Application
A disposable scalpel is a single-use, sterile cutting instrument supplied ready for use. Unlike traditional reusable scalpels, which require handling and blade-mounting, disposable scalpels eliminate the need for blade remover tools and reduce the risk of sharp injuries during preparation.
WPI's disposable scalpels are available in a range of blade numbers (#10, 11, 12, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25), each with a distinct geometry designed so that you can choose the ones best suited to your application. Disposable scalpels are ideal for students, researchers, and crafters. In this video we will describe some of the uses for these blades.
The #10 blade is a commonly used blade for surgical applications. It is used for making large incisions through skin and subcutaneous tissues. It is similar to the #20 blades, which is somewhat larger. The #20 blade is used for larger incisions through thicker tissues or for dissection of the soft tissues in larger animals.
Blades #10, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 are all curved and said to have a "belly." They are all used for making incisions. The sharpest area on these blades is the apex of the curve at the belly. This is the spot on the blade which is used for making the incision. Since the #15 is the smallest of these belly blades, it is often used for small animal surgery where short, precise incisions are required. It could also be used to remove skin lesions, perform an organ biopsy or in fine neurological applications. Larger blades like the #22 and #23 are designed for making bigger incisions like those required for a thoracotomy or a laparotomy.
A #11 blade is a triangular blade with a sharp point, also called a stabbing blade. This scalpel is used for making stab-style incisions and short, precision cuts. Often these cuts are made in shallow or recessed areas. For example, it could be used for inserting chest tubes or drains or for making a cut in a blood vessel where you need to insert a catheter.
The #12 blade is curved and is frequently used for removing sutures. It can be used to hook something that's on a stalk.
Crafters will often select the popular #10 and #11 blades. Surgical blades are typically thinner than craft blades, making them more flexible. Some artists recommend choosing straight blades like the #11 for making straight cuts and curved blades like the #10 for making curved cuts.
If you have any questions on disposable knives, just give us a call.Scalpel blades come in a variety of shapes so that you can choose the ones best suited to your application.
Popular Blade Comparison Table
| Blade | Edge Type | Precision | Best Use Cases |
| #10 |
Broad, curved |
Moderate |
General dissection, soft tissue incisions, surgical prep |
| #11 |
Fine, pointed |
High |
Puncture cuts, stab incisions, controlled tissue entry |
| #12 |
Crescent, curved |
Moderate |
Removing sutures |
| #15 |
Small, curved |
Very high |
Fine dissection, histology, confined-area cutting |
| #20 |
Large, curved |
Moderate |
General dissection, large soft tissue incisions, necropsy procedure |
| #21 |
Large, curved (Longer than the #20) |
Moderate |
Deep tissue dissection, large incisions in dense tissue. |
| #22 |
Broad, curved |
Moderate |
Large skin incisions, gross anatomy dissection, veterinary and necroscopy work |
| #23 |
Leaf-shaped, broad |
Moderate |
Long incisions, tissue harvesting, large specimen dissection |
| #24 |
Wide, semi-circular |
Low to moderate |
Extensive soft tissue cutting, autopsy, pathology procedures |
| #25 |
Large, flat and broad |
Low to moderate |
Heavy-duty tissue dissection, large animal and pathology applications |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which scalpel blade should I use for small animal surgery?
The #15 blade is the most widely used for small animal surgery. Its small, curved belly allows short, precise incisions proportionate to the anatomy of small animals such as mice and rats. It is also used for organ biopsy and fine neurological applications. For larger animals, #20 or #22 blades are more appropriate.
What blade is best for stab incisions or inserting a drain?
The #11 blade is specifically designed for stab incisions and puncture-style cuts. Its sharp triangular tip allows controlled entry in shallow or recessed areas, making it the standard choice for inserting chest tubes, drains, or catheters.
Can I use surgical scalpel blades for craft cutting?
Yes. Surgical blades are typically thinner and more flexible than purpose-made craft blades, which many artists prefer. The #11 is recommended for straight cuts and the #10 for curved cuts in craft or art applications.
Are WPI disposable scalpels sterile?
Yes. WPI disposable scalpels are supplied individually packaged and sterile, ready for direct clinical or research use. Each unit is pre-assembled with no blade mounting required.
How should I dispose of a disposable scalpel?
Disposable scalpels are classified as sharps waste. After use, the entire unit should be placed directly into an approved sharps container. Do not re-sheath the blade. The pre-fitted design means no blade removal is required, which removes the most common cause of sharp injuries associated with instrument handling.
What is the difference between #10 and #15 blades?
Both are curved belly blades, but the #10 is significantly larger and designed for broad incisions through skin and tissue. The #15 is the smallest belly blade, optimized for short, precise cuts in fine dissection, small animal surgery, and delicate research procedures. If precision and control are the priority, choose #15. If a wider incision is needed, choose #10.
