Scalpels having permanent blade retraction

Abstract

Scalpel constructions are shown in which shipping of the scalpel occurs with the blade retracted, surgeon usage enables exposure of the scalpel blade from required cutting during surgery, and finally and upon completed use of the scalpel, one-way retraction of the scalpel into a 'sharp-safe' blade covering disposition can occur. Thereafter, upon scalpel discard, the cutting edge of the scalpel is safely shielded and inhibited from further intentional or inadvertent cutting. A first design includes scalpel reciprocation along a handle against a detent for shipping with the blade within the handle, use with the blade exposed from the handle, and one-way retraction into the handle immediately prior to discard. A second design includes a handle folding across the scalpel body with a sleeve having a first position for covering the blade during shipping, a second position for holding the blade extended and exposed for surgery, and a third position for permanently locking about the scalpel blade after use. A third design includes a spring loaded scalpel normally producing blade retraction with the blade releasing to and from a protected position with provision made for locking the blade within the housing after use is completed. A fourth design includes a scalpel covered with a removable sheath having a hinge in the plane of the handle which is held in the extended position by a handle retained portion of the sheath. By sliding the sheath away from the hinge, the blade may be placed within a handle latch with the cutting edge of the blade permanently covered.