Talk:Scalpel

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[edit] Where

Where can I locate the history of the surgical scalpel?

Ancient Egyptians used sharpened obsidian for surgery and embalming. I've never heard of using a piece of papyrus. One probably couldn't cut through flesh with papyrus, which is a grass, so until someone who knows more about Egyptian archaeology than I do cites an example, I'm removing it and replacing it with obsidian.BrianGCrawfordMA 00:14, 27 January 2006 (UTC)

I've heard mention of papyrus being used as well--for eye surgery, I believe. And, you know, the thought of someone poking at my eyeball with a piece of sharpened grass gives me new respect for Ancient Egyptians...

Incidentally, I've also heard that plate glass blades are used on occasion in modern times, due to the incredible edge they can be given. Of course, in both cases I've said "I've heard" rather than giving sources, but that is more because I'm a lazy, lazy man...--Raulpascal 18:03, 28 June 2006 (UTC)

There seem to be glass knives made for cutting specimens for microscopy, tough daimond knives have replaced them for the more precise cuts. The article I've linked to, Glass knives have no sources though... Johan G 12:03, 25 July 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Need photos

 It is requested that a photograph or photographs be included in this article to improve its quality.
The Free Image Search Tool (FIST) may be able to locate suitable images on Flickr and other web sites.

Ideally there would be a picture of each blade and handle listed in the article. Cburnett 05:25, 1 November 2007 (UTC)

[edit] Disposal

I would like to see some information on disposal of blades. I know in medical institutions blades are probably disposed of with other medical waste, but I am always confused about how best to dispose of the blades I use for arts and crafts.217.43.98.52 (talk) 16:12, 27 December 2007 (UTC)