Abstract: A surgical instrument comprises a handle having a blade proximate a distal end of the handle. A blade edge inset from a mouth of the recess is exposed within the recess and faces at least partially toward a proximal end of the handle with the blade edge inset from a mouth of the recess. The distal end further comprises a point bounding a portion of the recess and facing at least partially toward the proximal end of the handle. Methods of use are also disclosed.

Abstract: A scalpel for performing complex surgeries, such as c-sections, is formed of a body that is preferably elongated and shaped and sized to fit ergonomically into the hands of surgeons. The body has surfaces that are joined to each other by smooth transition elements to insure that the body has no points or sharp edges that could cut or scratch the surgeon or the patient. The body is formed with a triangular notch formed of a beak and an extension. A surgical blade, preferably a standard off-the-shelf surgical blade, is imbedded in the body and the only portion of the blade that is accessible is a portion of its cutting edge spanning the notch. The scalpel is used by introducing the beak into a slit in the tissue with the blade portion facing the direction in which the cut is to be made. The body of the scalpel is then grasped firmly and advanced to make the cut. The initial incision can be made with the tip of the beak.