Abstract: The present invention is directed to a scalpel blade having a longitudinal axis, the scalpel blade preferably comprising a first edge coincident with the longitudinal axis, a second edge coincident with the longitudinal axis, a cutting edge located along at least a portion of the first edge, and a first indentation in juxtaposition with and spanning at least a portion of the second edge, wherein the first indentation is offset in a first direction from the second edge. The scalpel blade preferably further comprises a second indentation in juxtaposition with and spanning at least a portion of the first indentation, wherein the second indentation is offset in a direction opposite from the second edge. The scalpel blade can either be removably attached to a reusable scalpel handle or indelibly attached to a disposable scalpel.

Abstract: A protective sheath for a disposable surgical scalpel includes at least three modes of operation, (i) a protective mode, (ii) an open mode, and (iii) a permanently locked mode. In the open mode, a locking strip of the scalpel handle resides in one opening of the sheath to keep the sheath substantially immobile during use of the scalpel blade. In the protective mode, the locking strip resides in a second opening of the sheath to keep the sheath substantially immobile when the scalpel blade is not in use. In the permanently locked mode, a button connected to the sheath is depressed into the second opening and engages the locking strip, thereby preventing the blade from being used and allowing the scalpel to be safely disposed.

Abstract: A protective sheath for a disposable surgical scalpel includes at least three modes of operation, (i) a protective mode, (ii) an open mode, and (iii) a permanently locked mode. In the open mode, a locking strip of the scalpel handle resides in one opening of the sheath to keep the sheath substantially immobile during use of the scalpel blade. In the protective mode, the locking strip resides in a second opening of the sheath to keep the sheath substantially immobile when the scalpel blade is not in use. In the permanently locked mode, a button connected to the sheath is depressed into the second opening and engages the locking strip, thereby preventing the blade from being used and allowing the scalpel to be safely disposed.