Abstract: A blade and holder combination for use with a microkeratome, and including means for improving mechanical stability when the blade is reciprocated during cutting, as well as a peripheral configuration minimizing local nonuniformities. Blades in accordance with the invention have a generally hemispherical posterior geometry that include an adjacent centralized ovoid coupling aperture and a small centrally disposed access slot that may include indicia for denoting blade type. The hemispherical geometry minimizes both local deformities and the processing needed to assure that the product functions to provide a clean, uniform surgical result.

Abstract: A small case for protecting a microkeratome blade while allowing inspection and cleaning of the blade cutting edge incorporates adjacent walls which are hinged together to open and close relative to an inserted microkeratome blade. In position, when the case is closed the blade is set in a recess in one of the walls and held in position by an opposing surface on the other wall. Windows encompassing the cutting edge in each of the walls allow visual inspection and cleaning, if desired. When the case is opened, a converging guide groove extending from a side of one wall into the blade unit and to a point behind the cutting edge allows a surgeon to insert and guide a forceps into the blade unit so that it can be gripped and removed without contacting the cutting edge.

Abstract: A blade and holder combination for use with a microkeratome, and including means for improving mechanical stability when the blade is reciprocated during cutting, as well as a peripheral configuration minimizing local nonuniformities. Blades in accordance with the invention have a generally hemispherical posterior geometry that include an adjacent centralized ovoid coupling aperture and a small centrally disposed access slot that may include indicia for denoting blade type. The hemispherical geometry minimizes both local deformities and the processing needed to assure that the product functions to provide a clean, uniform surgical result.

Abstract: A blade and holder combination for use with a microkeratome, and including means for improving mechanical stability when the blade is reciprocated during cutting, as well as a peripheral configuration minimizing local nonuniformities. Blades in accordance with the invention have a generally hemispherical posterior geometry that include an adjacent centralized ovoid coupling aperture and a small centrally disposed access slot that may include indicia for denoting blade type. The hemispherical geometry minimizes both local deformities and the processing needed to assure that the product functions to provide a clean, uniform surgical result.