Patent ID: 7314471
Filing Date: 2008-01-01
Classification: A61B

Abstract:
1. A scalpel having a handle with a longitudinally extending cavity therein, a blade carrier within the cavity and movable longitudinally relative to the handle between an operative position in which the blade carrier extends through an open end of the cavity such that a blade carried thereby is exposed for use and an inoperative position in which the blade carrier is retracted into the cavity such that a blade carried thereby is retracted within the cavity in the handle, and a manually operable slider associated with the blade carrier and passing through a slot in a wall of the handle at an edge thereof, herein termed the top edge; the scalpel handle being molded as a single piece molding with an integral bridge defining an endless collar encircling the open end of the cavity through which the blade carrier may be introduced into the cavity wherein the slider is formed as a separate part that snap fits to the blade carrier after its introduction through the open end of the cavity to form a blade carrier and slider assembly.