Scalpels are used for removing tissue and making initial incisions. Typically, a scalpel is comprised of a blade and a handle. Scalpels are purchase based on the blade number which indicates its shape. The most popular blades are the #10, #11 and #15.
The traditional #10 blad has a broad, angled cutting edge. Use this blade for making wide tissue incissions.
The #11 blade is sharp and pointed and used for stabbing or making short incisions. The sharp, pointed tip makes precise shallow cuts. The blade is triangular in shape and has the sharp edge along the hypotenuse.
The #15 blade has a curved cutting edge, though not as large as the #10. It is used for making small incisions.