Abstract:
An adjustable, disposable dermal curette is structured to allow a user-practitioner to ergonomically grip a handle and manipulate an adjustable slider with a digit of their hand in order to change the diameter size of the flexible blade formed in an adjustable loop to the useful range of diameter sizes required. The user-practitioner can lock and unlock the slider in place quickly without the need to interrupt their procedure. The adjustable curette solves the problem of requiring multiple curette loop sizes for a procedure and results in improved quality of care and a savings of time and healthcare dollars.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present application is related to and claims priority from prior provisional application Ser. No. 61/910,473, filed Dec. 2, 2013 which application is incorporated herein by Reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates generally to the field of surgical instruments and more specifically relates to a manually adjustable and disposable dermal curette. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    This invention relates generally to medical devices for removing slough and devitalized tissue from a wound surface and edges, scraping skin lesions, and more particularly to an improved disposable dermal curette which can respond to the changes in blade diameter required to debride a wound thoroughly. 
         [0006]    A dermal curette is a device used by medical practitioners for scraping and debriding devitalized tissue, biofilm, and slough from chronic wounds; as well as growths, such as skin cancers, warts, actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis, from the surface of the skin. Generally, such devices are simple in construction, with a handle and a working element having a sharpened edge, which is used to scrape the surface of the wound or skin and remove the targeted tissue or debris. The working element is commonly a circular or ring-like configuration providing a curved or circular sharpened edge as the working surface of the curette. 
         [0007]    There are generally three basic types of dermal curettes: the Fox Curette, the Piffard curette, and the eye curette. The Fox curette is a device having a flat handle, usually metallic, with a generally cylindrical arm extending from the handle, also metallic, terminating in a working element having an oval or rounded-loop cutting edge. The Piffard Curette has a large metal handle tapering inwardly from the bottom of the handle, with a generally cylindrical metallic arm extending from the handle and terminating in a working element having an oval or rounded-loop cutting edge. The Piffard Curette is further provided with grooves or ribbed surfaces extending lengthwise along the handle of the curette. The eye curette is similar in design to the Fox Curette, but has a working element, which is dish-like rather than looped-shaped, resulting in a working edge with a scooping action. The eye curette also has grooves or ribbed surfaces, which extend around the width of the handle. Variations of the dermal curettes described above are available and are identified and marketed as the Buck, Skeele, or Heath curettes. These curettes, as well as the ones described above, are made to be reused multiple times, that is, designed and manufactured far repeated use after sterilization and, if necessary, resharpening. 
         [0008]    Dermal, curettes of such designs have been, and are currently being, used by physicians and mid-level providers in medical procedures for the removal of devitalized tissue, slough, biofilm and debris in chronic wounds, as well as lesions and unhealthy growths from the surface of the skin of a patient. Generally, the removal of slough and biofilm is done without anesthesia. However, in some procedures, the physician anesthetizes the area, removes the lesion or greater amounts of tissue with a scraping action utilizing a dermal curette and then cauterizes or electrode-siccates the area scraped if hemostasis is not achieved through compression. Sometimes the procedure is reversed in part and, after anesthetizing the area, the lesion is desiccated and then scraped using a curette. Ideally, all of the slough, biofilm, devitalized tissue, lesions or unhealthy tissues or growths are removed in the scraping procedure with minimal destruction of the remaining healthy tissues. A body of clinical research has shown that a thorough and effectively defended wound is key to a fast and quality recovery. 
         [0009]    As with many medical procedures, the effectiveness of such scraping procedures depends upon two interrelated factors, namely, the skill of the physician or mid-level provider and the design of the tool used. Abnormalities of the skin, such as slough, biofilm, debris, and devitalized tissue in a chronic wound; as well as cancers, warts, actinic keratosis and seborrheic keratosis, differ to the touch from healthy tissues. Therefore, the experienced provider relies on the sense of touch during the scraping procedure and “feels’ the difference between healthy and unhealthy tissues. With the proper tools, the provider can use their sense of touch, to judge the depth of scraping necessary to remove only the targeted and unhealthy tissues, leaving the healthy tissues relatively unharmed. 
         [0010]    Sharp debridement uses scalpels and curettes. Due to the complex structure of a chronic wound and the medical goal of achieving a thorough debridement, a typical debridement will require multiple sizes of curettes. Many procedures involve multiple wounds and new curettes are used for each wound. For practitioners, needing to switch back, and forth between multiple curettes for a wound is slow, cumbersome, and as a result leads to imprecise, ineffective debridements. For hospitals, multiple curette sizes represents unnecessary added costs, biohazardaus waste, and storage. 
         [0011]    To accomplish this meticulous work in detail, a practitioner uses a variety of sizes. Based on feedback from one clinician, the max hoop size needed is 8 mm and the minimum hoop size is 2 mm. The range of sizes offered by a leading manufacturer of dermal curettes is 1 mm to 8 mm, with some only ranging 2 mm-7 mm. 
         [0012]    Ideally, an adjustable curette should provide an ergonomic handle and a digitally-actuable means for selectively increasing and decreasing a diameter size of a blade formed into an adjustable loop for curetting, and, yet would operate reliably and he manufactured at a modest expense. The tool should posess a means to adjust, the size of the blade with the same hand that is holding the tool, in order to avoid disrupting the procedure. Furthermore, the tool should allow the practitioner to easily lock the size of the curette at a desired sixe and unlock it to change sizes so that, the cutting tool can be used fixedly without the need for the practioner to monitor the adjuster. 
         [0013]    In view of the sensory-dependent nature of such procedures, the design of the tool used is of critical importance. The curette must have a working element which is sharp enough to cut rather than pull and distort the tissue. Reusable curettes, like those described above, dull over time and do not hold, a sharp edge very well. Thus, a curette which provides a working element of consistent sharpness, which the disposable curette of the present invention provides because of its one-time use, is needed. 
         [0014]    It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a single instrument that can adjust and accommodate various tool head sizes without the need to unnecessarily switch out tools during a procedure. 
         [0015]    It is another object of the present invention to provide an instrument that can quickly and easily modulate to accommodate the needs tor a particular procedure or procedure. 
         [0016]    It is also an object of the present invention, to provide an instrument that can quickly and easily be locked at a desired, cutting head size and unlocked at a desired cutting head size to allow for safe and consistent use of the cutting head. 
         [0017]    It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a single curette tool that can he used for a variety of procedures by adjusting the cutting head size to meet the needs of a particular user and/or procedure. 
         [0018]    It is a yet further object of the present invention to provide a disposable one-time use curette that can be brought to a procedure and modified for a particular instance or procedure. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0019]    in view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known curette art, the present invention provides a novel adjustable curette. The general, purpose of the present invention, which will be described subsequently in greater detail is to provide a curette device that is different in that it allows a user to easily adjust a cutting surface size with the movement of a digitally-actuatable (linger/thumb adjustable) adjuster. The adjuster can be easily and conveniently locked or unlocked at a desired cutting surface size. The manual adjustability of a diameter of the hoop blade may lead to improved outcomes in wound debridement. Better control of the cutting surface will allow for more precise debridements and larger surface scraping to be done with a single tool. Further, a flexible steel wire may be easy to manufacture at a low cost. 
         [0020]    In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it is an object to provide an improved dermal curette which may be easily adjusted from 1 mm to 8 mm to be utilized in scraping the biofilm, slough, debris, and devitalized tissue from a chronic wound; as well as lesions and growths from the surface of a patient&#39;s skin. It is another object to provide an improved dermal curette having a working edge of consistent sharpness through all available size configurations which is capable of producing a scraping action when used for multiple purposes, such as in removing biofilm, slough, debris, and devitalized tissue from a chronic wound; as well as lesions from the surface of a patient&#39;s skin. It is a further object of this invention to provide an improved dermal curette having the ability to save healthcare dollars, improved outcomes through a more thorough debridement based on the easily adjustable hoop cutting surface. 
         [0021]    The cutter should be stiff enough in both the axis along the length of the tool as well as laterally so that it may remove tissue without bending or twisting. The handle of the tool should be about the length of a pen so that it may be held like one. For the removal of cancerous or unwanted tissues, the practitioner relies on subtle haptic (touch) sense to differentiate between the stiffness of the unwanted tissue and the healthy tissue. As such, it is important, that there is evenly distributed weight, or at least consistent, weighting throughout the tool, to prevent any moment arm force from the tool itself. 
         [0022]    Practitioner may adjust size with the hand performing the procedure (and not have to switch hands). 
         [0023]    The curette should have a handle of sufficient weight to provide the balance necessary to allow the physician to properly “feel” the varying resistance levels between biofilm, slough, devitalized tissue and healthy tissue, and an overall design which provides the physician with maximum control of the tool in use. Furthermore, what makes this design of a dermal curette unique is the ability to adjust the size of the cutting surface. Today, disposable curettes are supplied in single size options from 1 mm to 10 mm. Each is stored, in a single use sterile plastic container. If a procedure requires the use of multiple blade sizes, multiple units must be opened requiring discard after use. Having a single disposable and adjustable dermal curette in the hands of a skilled provider will lead to better overall outcomes. 
         [0024]    The present invention has been developed in response to that need, and provides an improved dermal curette having a working edge with consistent sharpness which is suitable for scraping procedures, a hooped blade that is adjustable and locks in useful sizes from 1 mm to 8 mm and a handle which is properly balanced and also designed to easily change the size of the cutting surface throughout a procedure to allow the user maximum control of the curette with less waste due to not needing to open multiple unit. 
         [0025]    The present invention holds significant improvements and serves as a manually adjustable and disposable curette. For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention have been described herein. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. The features of the invention which are believed to be novel are particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of the specification. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings and detailed description. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
         [0026]    The figures which accompany the written portion of this specification illustrate embodiments and method(s) of use for the present invention, adjustable curette, constructed and operative according to the teachings of the present invention. 
           [0027]      FIG. 1  shows a perspective view illustrating an adjustable curette comprising a handle having a triangular profile according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0028]      FIG. 2  shows a perspective view illustrating the adjustable curette in an alternative embodiment of the present invention comprising the handle having a “Y” head profile. 
           [0029]      FIG. 3A  illustrates a perspective view of the adjustable curette comprising the triangular profile during an ‘in-use’ condition according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0030]      FIG. 3B  illustrates a perspective view of the adjustable curette comprising the “Y” head profile during an ‘in-use’ condition according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 4A  shows a close-up frontal view of the distal end of the handle of the adjustable curette comprising the triangular profile having a blade opening for allowing both ends of an inwardly bent blade to pass there-through according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 1 and 3A . 
           [0032]      FIG. 4B  shows a close-up perspective view of the distal end of the handle of the adjustable curette comprising the “Y” head profile comprising a guide having a first side and a second side according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 2 and 3B . 
           [0033]      FIG. 5A  is an interior perspective view of the handle of the adjustable curette comprising the blade controlled by an adjustable slider according to an. embodiments of the present invention of  FIGS. 1 ,  3 A, and  4 A. 
           [0034]      FIG. 5B  is a perspective view of the blade as shown in  FIG. 5A  demonstrating blade holes according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 5A . 
           [0035]      FIG. 5C  is a perspective view of the blade demonstrating blade bent inwardly according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0036]      FIG. 5D  is a perspective view of the blade demonstrating blade bent according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 5E  is a close-up perspective view illustrating a first blade end and a second blade end shown in  FIG. 5D  according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 5F  shows a top perspective view illustrating the blade of  FIG. 5E  attached to the slider according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0039]      FIG. 6A  shows an interior perspective view of the handle of the adjustable curette comprising the “Y” head profile and comprising the blade controlled by the adjustable slider according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 2 ,  3 B, and  4 B. 
           [0040]      FIG. 6B  shows a close-up top-view of an interior portion of the adjustable curette handle distal end comprising the “Y” head profile from a top angle showing a fixed end of the blade fixedly mounted to a second side of the guide according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 6A . 
           [0041]      FIG. 7A  shows a side view of the adjustable curette comprising the triangular profile during an ‘in-use’ condition showing the adjustable slider on a thumb side of the handle for adjustment by a thumb of the user and comprising the adjustable loop having a small loop area according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0042]      FIG. 7B  shows a side view of the adjustable curette of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7A  comprising the triangular profile during the ‘in-use’ condition showing the adjustable slider on the thumb side of the handle for adjustment by the thumb of the user and comprising the adjustable loop having a medium loop area according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 7C  shows a side view of the adjustable curette of the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B  comprising the triangular profile during the ‘in-use’ condition showing the adjustable slider on the thumb side of the handle for adjustment by the thumb of the user and comprising the adjustable loop having a large loop area according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0044]      FIG. 8A  shows a side view of the adjustable curette comprising the comprising the triangular profile during an ‘in-use’ condition showing the adjustable slider on a top side of the handle for adjustment by an index finger or other digit of the user according to an embodiment, of the present invention. 
           [0045]      FIG. 8B  shows a side view of the adjustable curette comprising the comprising the triangular profile of  FIG. 8A  showing the adjustable slider on the top side of the handle for adjustment by the index finger or other digit of the user according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0046]      FIG. 9A  shows an isolated top perspective view of the adjustable slider button with a zipper size adjuster for a slider rail according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0047]      FIG. 9B  shows a side view of the adjustable slider of  FIG. 9A  installed within the sliding rail channel comprising a plurality of grooves according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0048]      FIG. 9C  shows a side view of the sliding rail channel without slider comprising the plurality of grooves according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0049]      FIG. 9D  shows a close-up view of the slider in rail according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 10A  shows a close-tip cut-out side view of a spring locking mechanism of the present invention comprising a spring and a plurality of grooves spaced apart via a predetermined distance according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0051]      FIG. 10B  shows the spring locking mechanism as shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 10A  for locking the adjustable slider in one of the grooves via a pressing motion of the user according to an embodiment of the present invention in an unlocked position. 
           [0052]      FIG. 10C  shows the spring locking mechanism of  FIG. 10A and 10B  for unlocking the adjustable slider from one of the grooves via a depressing motion of the user according to an embodiment of the present invention locked in groove. 
           [0053]      FIG. 11A  shows a cut-out side view of a notch locking mechanism of the present invention for actuating the adjustable slider of the adjustable curette according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0054]      FIG. 11B  shows a cut-out side view of the notch locking mechanism comprising a ball connected to the slider and removably-securable into at least one notch according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0055]      FIG. 11C  shows a cut-out side view of the bah secured within one of the notches of the notch locking mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0056]      FIG. 12A  shows a side view of a stationary wheel slider of the present invention for actuating the adjustable blade of the adjustable curette according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0057]      FIG. 12B  shows a cut-out top view of a wheel that is rotatable by the user of the wheel size adjuster and comprising a plurality of spokes according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12A . 
           [0058]      FIG. 12C  shows a perspective view of the blade comprising a plurality of sprocket holes for receiving the spokes of the wheel of the wheel size adjuster according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 12A and 12B . 
           [0059]      FIG. 13A  shows a close-up top view of a leaf spring size adjuster for actuating the adjustable slider of the adjustable curette according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0060]      FIG. 13B  shows an underside view of a leaf spring of the leaf spring size adjuster according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 13A . 
           [0061]      FIG. 13C  shows another side view of the leaf spring of the leaf spring size adjuster according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 13B . 
           [0062]      FIG. 14A  shows a top-view of the adjustable curette comprising a sleeve for further adjusting the loop area of the adjustable loop according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. 
           [0063]      FIG. 14B  shows a perspective view of the adjustable curette comprising the sleeve reducing the loop area of the adjustable loop by moving the sleeve upward toward a distal end of the handle according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 14A . 
           [0064]      FIG. 15  is a flowchart illustrating a method of use for the adjustable curette according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 1-14 . 
           [0065]      FIG. 16A  shows an exploded view of an embodiment of the blade end and blade docking of the present invention. 
           [0066]      FIG. 16B  shows an embodiment of the blade end docking within blade docking of the present invention. 
           [0067]      FIG. 17  shows a top view of a blade end of the present invention. 
           [0068]      FIG. 17A  shows a side view of a docking port of the present invention with a cross-sectional view illustrated next thereto. 
           [0069]      FIG. 17B  shows a top view of an exploded version of a blade docking system of the present invention. 
           [0070]      FIG. 17C  shows a top view of a blade docking system of the present invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION  
       [0071]    As discussed above, embodiments of the present invention relate to a adjustable curette and more particularly to a disposable and manually adjustable dermal curette designed to be used in debriding a chronic wound by scraping slough, biofilm, devitalized tissue; as well as lesions and unhealthy tissues from the surface of a patient&#39;s skin. 
         [0072]    In an embodiment of the present invention, the adjustable curette may comprise a plastic handle having a proximal end portion, a mid-section portion and a distal end portion with a generally circular or looped-shaped working element attached to the distal end portion. For control of the cutting surface size, a slider tab on the handle may be adjustable with the thumb (or other digit) through a series of indents intended to lock the blade into the designated size from 5 μm to 50 cm, preferably, 1 mm through 10 mm, and in preferred embodiments for certain dermal curettes 2 mm to 7 mm. The handle may be provided with a textured surface, preferably grooved or ribbed surface, extending lengthwise along the distal end portion for ease of handling the curette handle. Further, the proximal end of handle portion preferably tapers inwardly to form a flat-nosed surface at its end. The adjustable hoop blade may be attached to the thumb tab as such when the tab is extended toward the distal (hooped cutting edge) end of the handle and the blade size expands to its largest diameter of 10 mm as the thumb slider tab is moved aft, the hoop blade is retracted and the hoop is squeezed against the fixed handle opening and thus contracts to the smallest 1 mm size. 
         [0073]    The various set modes of the blade size can be predetermined in unitary loop sizes, i.e. 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, . . . 10 mm, etc. Another means of obtaining predetermined loop sizes is to have predetermined loop sizes that increase the loop diameter in a percentage fashion, i.e. with regularly spaced notches such that each next size is a predetermined percentage larger than the last (i.e. 1 mm, +100% to 2 mm, +50% to 3 mm, etc.). Preferably, there will be markers along the handle and/or along the blade indicating the size of the current blade loop available for procedure. The indicator on the handle, for instance, may be along the slider button channel on the exterior of the handle. If placed on the blade, the portion of the blade next to the distal end of the handle and/or guide will have an indicator etched, or drawn or laser etched or painted onto blade with various sizes, similar to a ruler. 
         [0074]    The target uses for the present invention is wound debridement and dermatology. However, further research has covered other uses for the exact same device: MOHS Surgery, Plastic surgery and General Surgery. A similar non-sterile version can be produced to meet several arts and crafts needs: Pumpkin carving, Clay and other medium sculpting, Etching, and Ice Sculpting (with a current run through the blade to produce heat) Curettes being useful in numerous applications require that the present invention include various embodiments for other uses, i.e. smaller loop sizes for ophthalmologic use, and larger loop sizes for shop work. Various sizes and blade type would also be developed for otological curette embodiment (ear), Ophthalmology (eye). Dental plaque removal, and internal uses such as obstetric and gynecology (i.e. dilate and curettage procedure), and possible veterinary surgery. 
         [0075]    The cutting blade may also use a variation of the above method to adjust size. The variation may anchor the blade inside the handle and have a sleeve that glides over the surface of the flexible steel to accomplish the task of changing the hoop&#39;s size, This method may have the steel blade expand as the sleeve moves aft and contract as the sleeve moves forward. The blade itself may be housed inside the handle, thus only exposing the cutting edge at the appropriately desired size determined by the provider and locked into place by indentations. 
         [0076]    While an acceptable blade for the purposes of this invention may include any structurally stiff material that can be pressed, extruded, etc. into a generally planar shape with a sharp-like edge, the preferred embodiment utilizes a blade made of metal, preferably a shape-memory alloy such as nickel titanium, (or nitinol). In this manner the shape, or shapes, of the blade loop can be preconfigured based on loop sizes, in addition, any curvature of the blade can be pre-configured into the blade material. Further enhancements with a shape-memory blade can also allow for the loop to maintain a usable shape and to prevent the loop from curving back or in other ways becoming less useful for its intended operation as a normal curette. 
         [0077]    Another preferred embodiment for the blade includes any material that can be made into a wire, preferably for embodiments where the loop size is to be kept small For instance, tor Ophthalmological scale, curette blade loop sizes might start at 5 μm or smaller. For clay pottery, sizes might reach as high as 50 cm. Typically, the blade size and grade will be modified based on the loop size. For instance a higher gauge metal would be used for a larger blade size, based on loop size and/or intended use, where as a small gauge or wire would be used for smaller embodiments, 
         [0078]    In some embodiments, it may be necessary to choose a blade material, that acts as a mild resistor to allow for heat-generation when a current is passed through. By sending electricity through the blade it could also be used to instantly cauterize a wound or incision. The blade acting as a simple resistance circuit. Possible materials include tungsten, tungsten carbide, titanium, and other metals known in the art for supplying cauterization. 
         [0079]    The mid-section portion, of the handle may be defined by a recessed flat surface extending lengthwise along the top of the mid-section portion; the remainder of the mid-section portion is generally cylindrical in shape. For maximum control and proper balance, the proximal end portion may further be provided with a textured surface similar to the distal end portion and the raid-section portion may further be provided with, a finely textured surface extending around its width. Finally, the working element is provided with one cutting edge, which is sharpened to a degree necessary to be used in debriding a chronic wound by scraping slough, biofilm, devitalized, tissue; as well as lesions and unhealthy tissues from the surface of a patient&#39;s skin. This cutting edge maybe uniformly sharpened to include all potential hoop sizes. 
         [0080]    The adjustable curette of the present embodiment of the invention may employ two potential mechanisms for manual blade adjustment. A first mechanism comprises an anchor point that is fixed inside the handle and an adjustable sleeve which may be moved forward to decrease blade diameter size or aft to increase blade diameter size. It is important to note that flexibility of the steel both yields to change size and maintains strength to provide and sharp cutting surface. 
         [0081]    A second mechanism comprises the anchor point of the hoop blade being fixed to the adjustable thumb slider. As the thumb slider moves forward, more hoop is exposed, and the fixed opening of the handle provides resistance against the blade. As the thumb slider moves aft, it pulls the blade into the handle, thus decreasing the hoop&#39;s diameter against the fixed, handle opening. Both mechanisms rely on the flexibility of a blade folded on itself to produce a hooped, end. The method to adjust the size is unique to either design. 
         [0082]    Referring to the drawings by numerals of reference there is shown in  FIG. 1  a perspective view illustrating adjustable curette  100  comprising handle  105  having triangular profile  102  according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, adjustable curette  100  is shown comprising handle  105  having distal end  106  and proximal end  107  and longitudinal axis  108  running the length of the handle from distal to proximal end. Adjustable curette  100  further comprises blade  110 . Blade  110  may comprise a flexible elongated planar member oriented in profile as shown. Blade  110  may comprise fixed end  111  and movable end  112  (not shown, affixed to sliding mechanism within handle body) and may be coupled with handle  105  such that fixed end  111  of blade  110  is fixedly coupled to handle  105  and movable end  112  of blade  110  is coupled to slider  115 . It should be noted and appreciated that slider  115  may be movably coupled to handle  105  in alternate embodiments of the present invention. Further, handle  105  may comprise sliding channel  120  situated longitudinally along handle axis  108 . Blade  110 , when coupled to handle  105  bends inwardly and forms adjustable loop  125  extending beyond distal end  106  of handle  105 , as shown. 
         [0083]    In continuing to refer to  FIG. 1 , handle  105  may comprise slider button  115 . Slider button  115  is structured and arranged in a variety of manners as disclosed herein for traversing sliding channel  120  such that an adjustment of slider button  115  has a proportionate adjustment to loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . In such a manner, a user may conveniently change a size of adjustable loop  125  during use of adjustable curette  100 . It should be appreciated that, adjustable curette  100  is structured and arranged such that moving slider  115  upwards increases loop area  126  and moving slider  115  downwards decreases loop area  126 . 
         [0084]    As may further be seen in  FIG. 1 , handle  105  having triangular profile  102  (shown more fully in  FIG. 9B , etc, below) may comprise a triangular shape which, may allow handle  105  to be comfortably held like a pencil allowing for a fiat surface upon which to place slider to be actuated by user. Further, the triangular shape may also prevent unintentional rolling of the device while in use, or when placed on a surface. Surface pattern  160  may include a textured ridge on topside of handle  162  of adjustable curette  100  may be necessary as an indicator of a correct orientation. In order to provide ease of use, slider  115  is adjustable using the same hand that handle  105  is held in by user  140 , without user  140  having to adjust a hand position too much from a working position. For ergonomic gripping, handle  105  may comprise surface pattern  160  for augmenting dexterity and manipulation of adjustable curette  100 . In one embodiment as shown in  FIG. 1 , surface pattern  160  may comprise plurality of dimples. Dimples may be useful for providing a grip for user  140  when handling adjustable curette  100 . Preferably, fixed end  111  of blade  110  may be fixedly mounted to an interior wall of handle  105 . The interior wall that fixed end  111  of blade  110  is fixedly mounted may be the wail opposite sliding channel  120 . In such a manner, movable end  112  of blade  110  that is mounted to slider  115  which traverses sliding channel  121 ) may be moved toward distal end  106  of handle  105  for increasing loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . 
         [0085]    Referring now to  FIG. 2  showing an alternative embodiment of the present invention comprising handle  105  having “Y” head profile  200 . As shown, distal end  106  of handle may comprise guide  205 . Guide  205  may be made from two distinct sides: first side  206  to control the angle at which blade  110  adjacent to fixed end  111  orients relative to the longitudinal axis of handle  105 ; and second side  207 , one or both sides oriented to control the angle at which blade  110  adjacent to movable end  132  orients relative to longitudinal axis of handle  105 . It should be noted that guide  205  provides for at least a portion of blade  110  to pass through to form adjustable loop. As shown, blade  110  may travel through blade opening of first side  207  and follow affixedly through blade opening of second side  206  thereby forming adjustable loop  125  in front of distal end  106  of handle  105 . It should be noted that handle  105  comprising “Y” head profile  200  may be optimal for working with a larger and wider loop areas of adjustable loop because first side  206  and second side  207  of guide  205  are angled away from each other, as compared to handle comprising triangular profile as shown in  FIG. 1  whereby the blade egresses from a single blade opening. 
         [0086]    In continuing to refer to  FIG. 2 , handle  185  of adjustable curette  100  may comprise surface pattern  160  which may comprise ribbing  215 . Ribbing  215  may be useful for providing a varying grip for user  140  when handling adjustable curette  180 . in addition, ribbing  215  may be useful for indicating a correct orientation of handle  105  during use. In an alternative embodiment, ribbing may extend further along handle, and/or circumscribe the handle. 
         [0087]    Referring now to  FIGS. 3A and 3B  showing a perspective view of adjustable curette  100  during ‘in-use’ condition with user  350  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 3A , handle  105  having triangular profile  102  may comprise slider  115  located on thumb side  305  of handle  105  such that it may be actuated by thumb digit  310  of user hand  140  (such as a thumb of user hand  140 , as seen in  FIG. 3A ). Turning to  FIG. 3B  showing a perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  during ‘in-use’ condition with user  350  according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 2 . Slider  115  may be on thumb side  305  of handle  185  such, that it may be actuated by thumb digit  310  of user  140  (ie. the thumb of user hand  140 , as shown). 
         [0088]    In continuing to refer to  FIG. 3A , it may be appreciated that handle  105  comprising triangle profile  182  may be held and manipulated by user  140  similar to a pen or pencil during ‘in-use’ condition by user  350 . 
         [0089]    Referring now to  FIG. 4A  showing a close-up perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising triangular profile  102  having blade opening  410  for allowing both ends of the inwardly bent blade to pass there-through according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, distal end  106  of handle  105  has a triangular profile  102 , where the distal end surface allows for blade opening  410 . Blade opening  410  may be a slit/opening tor allowing a blade bent inwardly, to pass through blade opening  410  twice. 
         [0090]    In referring now to  FIG. 4B  showing a close-up perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  comprising guide  205  having first guide side  206  and second guide side  207  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, distal end  106  of handle  105  includes a “Y” head profile  200  having separated ends and openings for each end of the blade. First side  206  having blade opening  410  and second side  207  having blade opening  410 . Blade opening  410  may comprise a slit/opening for allowing blade  110  to pass there-through. In the embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 4B , the fixed end of a blade may be fixedly mounted to second side  207  of guide  205  and movable end  112  of blade  110  may be securely attached to slider  115 . It should be noted that blade  110  passing through blade opening  410  of second side  207  of guide  205  is stationary and blade  110  passing through blade opening  410  of first side  206  of guide  205  ingresses and egresses as slider  115  is adjusted by user  140 . In an alternative embodiment; both ends of the blade may be fixed and enter through respective guide sides. 
         [0091]    In referring now to  FIG. 5A  illustrating an interior perspective view of handle  105  of adjustable curette  100  having triangular profile  102  and comprising blade  110  which is user-manipulable via slider  115  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Distal end  106  tapers to a slit or single blade opening  410 . In one embodiment, movable end  112  of blade  110  maybe fixedly mounted to slider  115  such that blade  110 , folded onto itself inside handle  105 , is able to slide in and out of blade opening  410  of distal end  106  of handle  105  for forming adjustable loop  125 . It should be appreciated that loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125  is increasable and decreasable via an adjustment of slider button  115  as slider  115  is moved through sliding channel  120 . It may further be seen that sliding channel  120  may traverse longitudinal axis  108  of handle  105 . 
         [0092]    In referring now to  FIGS. 5B and 5C  showing views of blade  110  comprising blade hole(s)  505  located at each end of blade  110  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, blade  110  may be bent inwardly for forming adjustable loop  125 . Preferably, blade  110  is bent inwardly such that blade hole(s)  505  are in direct alignment, as shown in  FIG. 5C .  FIG. 5B  shows the same blade in three arrangements, from straight bent to mated bent. When blade is mated, holes  505  may align for a single boss or pin to capture and secure both ends of blade within the handle. When the blade securing mechanism, or securer, is affixed, a separate sliding sleeve, as seen in a later embodiment of the present invention, below as in  FIGS. 14A and 14B . In an alternative embodiment, the securer may be attached directly to a slider, as seen in  FIG. 5D ,  FIG. 5D  shows a top perspective view illustrating blade  110  attached to slider  115  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, blade  110  may be fixedly attached to slider  115  via blade securer  510 . In one embodiment, blade securer  510  may comprise a pin having a bolt and a washer. The pin may be connected to slider  115  and may be insertable through blade hole(s)  505  of blade  110 . The pin may be secured to blade  110  via the bolt and the washer. In other embodiments, blade securer  510  may also comprise a clip, a fastener, a staple, or a high-bond adhesive. 
         [0093]    As can be seen, in the embodiment of the invention including a blade, particularly as shown in  FIG. 5B , the preferred blade for the present invention is a planar body with two elongated edges. The blade is preferable dual-sided, in that it is meant to cut in a first or second direction (when the tool is rotated or flipped). Both edges of the blade preferably serve as a curette, in embodiments deploying a wire as blade, this multi-directional cutting is present and even more pronounced. Depending on the orientation and shape of the handle, it may be useful to switch to the other blade edge to get a better feel or reach to cut. Also, if during the procedure the blade dulls, becomes occluded or encrusted by debris, the tool should allow the user to flip/rotate the handle to use the alternate blade edge. 
         [0094]    In referring now to  FIGS. 6A-6B  showing an interior perspective view of handle  105  of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  and having blade  110  controlled by slider  115  according to an embodiment of the present invention shows another interior view of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  from a top angle. As shown, fixed end  111  of blade  110  may be fixedly mounted to second side  207  of guide  205  and movable end  112  of blade  110  may be securely attached to slider  115 . It should be noted that blade  110  passing through blade opening  410  of second side  207  of guide  205  is stationary and blade  118  passing through blade opening  410  of first side  206  of guide  205  is able to slide in and out of blade opening  410  as slider  115  is adjusted up and down by user  148  thus arranging blade loop  125  and size of area  126 . Slider  115  moves along channel  120  and in cavity  610 . 
         [0095]    As seen in  FIG. 6B , blade  110  may be fixed to slider  115  at post  510  at movable end  112 . Blade  110  follows into cavity  610  in handle and out opening  410  at distal end  205 . Blade fixed end  111  re-enters cavity  610 , preferably through, separate opening from  410  (but may be a single opening over entire surface of distal end) and affixes to post  510 A. 
         [0096]    In referring now to  FIGS. 7A-C  showing several perspective views of thumb slide adjuster embodiment  700  of adjustable curette  100  comprising triangular profile  102  during ‘in-use’ condition  750  according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, handle  185  may comprise slider  115  located on thumb side  305  of handle  105  for adjustment by the thumb of user  140 . As seen in  FIG. 7A , adjustable loop  125  may comprise loop area  126  having a smaller diameter when slider  115  is positioned closer to proximal end  187  of handle  105  of slider channel  120 .  FIG. 7B  shows a perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising triangular profile  102  during ‘in-use’ condition  750  showing slider  115  located on thumb side  305  of handle  105  for adjustment by the thumb  310  of user  140 . As shown, adjustable loop  125  may comprise loop area  126  having a medium diameter when slider  115  is positioned in a middle of slider channel  120 .  FIG. 7C  shows a perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising triangular profile  102  during ‘in-use’ condition  750  showing slider  115  located on thumb side  305  of handle  105  for -adjustment by the thumb  310  of user  140 . As shown, adjustable loop  125  may comprise loop area  126  having a large diameter when slider  115  is positioned closer to distal end  106  of handle  105  of slider channel  120 . Top side  710  includes pattern  160  for use of grip and to allow the index finger to further guide procedures. 
         [0097]    In continuing to refer to  FIGS. 7A-C , handle  105  may comprise surface pattern  160  comprising rubber strip  725 . Rubber strip  725  may be located on index finger side  710  of handle  105  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Surface pattern  160  may use dimples or ribbing. It should be appreciated that surface pattern  160  on index linger side  710  of handle  105  may provide an ergonomic gripping surface for an index linger of user  140  during ‘in-use’ condition  750 . 
         [0098]    In referring now to  FIGS. 8A-B  showing a pair of perspective views of index finger slider adjuster embodiment  800  of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  during ‘in-use’ condition  850  illustrating slider  115  on index finger side  710  of handle  105  for adjustment by an index finger or other digit  310  of user hand  140  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 8B  shows another perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising “Y” head profile  200  illustrating index linger slider adjuster embodiment  800 . It should be appreciated that in this embodiment, user  140  may adjust slider  115  via the index, finger and not the thumb. Index finger slider adjuster embodiment  800  may be ideal for user  140  who is right-handed and alternatively left-handed as index linger side  710  is on a top of handle  105 . 
         [0099]    In referring now to  FIGS. 9A-D  showing several perspective views of slider  115  comprising zipper size adjuster  900  according to an embodiment of adjustable curette  100 .  FIG. 9A  is an isolated view illustrating slider  115  with articulable surface  115 A of adjustable curette  100  comprising zipper size adjuster  900 . As shown, zipper size adjuster  900  may comprise slider rail  905  for interacting with sliding channel  120  of handle  105  comprising plurality of grooves  910 , Slider rail  905  may be structured and arranged to removably engage with plurality of grooves  910  as slider  115  is manipulated by user  140  across sliding channel  120 .  FIG. 9B  shows a perspective view of slider  115  comprising zipper size adjuster  900  installed within sliding channel  120  comprising plurality of grooves  910  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 9C  shows an alternative perspective view of sliding channel  120  comprising plurality of grooves  910 .  FIG. 9D  shows an alternative perspective view of zipper size adjuster  900  installed within sliding channel  120  comprising plurality of grooves  910  according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that zipper size adjuster  900  behaves similarly to a zipper such that user is able to manipulate slider  115  across plurality of grooves  910  comprising opposing teeth of sliding channel  120 . User is able to adjust loop area of flexible loop. In addition, when slider  115  is positioned in groove  910 , blade and loop area becomes fixed in position. 
         [0100]    It should be appreciated in looking and comparing  FIGS. 8A-C  and  FIGS. 9A-B  that slider  115  may be on one of the sides of handle  105  comprising thumb side  305  for manipulating slider  115  via a thumb of user  140  and alternatively located on the topside of handle  105  comprising index finger side  710  for manipulating slider  115  via an index finger of user  140 . Preferably, slider  115  should be near distal end  106  of handle  105  so that actuating digit  310  may adjust its full length without other fingers holding handle  105  needing to move. 
         [0101]    An advantage of placing slider  115  on top of handle  105  is that it is the most ambidextrous solution. If slider  115  is placed on topside of handle, the locking mechanism provided by grooves  910  and complimentary notch of slider rail  905  of slider  115  is important, since digit  310  of user  140  tends to have the most pressure on adjustable curette  100  during scraping, and may unintentionally bump slider  115  during use. The locking mechanism may prevent slider  115  from moving in the event that pressure is placed on slider  115 . Further, slider  115  may also be on the side of handle  105 , again near distal end  106  of handle  105 , As may be seen, slider  115  may be parallel to a face of adjustable curette  100  that it is on. It may also be comfortable if slider  115  on the side is perpendicular to the top lace of adjustable curette  100 . In one preferred embodiment, the smallest size of predetermined distance may be 1 mm and have a range of motion not longer than 30 mm (which is more than needed for a range of 1 mm-10 mm loop size) so that digit  310  of user  140  may adjust its full length without, other fingers holding handle  105  having to move. Slider may adjust in 1 mm increments, but may adjust in larger increments regularly, or as the loop size grows it may raise increments in a fester method, i.e. 1, 2, 3,4, 5, 7, 10, 13, 17, 21, 30, 40 mm, etc. 
         [0102]    In referring now to  FIGS. 10A-C  showing several perspective views of spring locking mechanism  1000  of adjustable curette  100  for locking and unlocking slider  115  in place according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 10A , spring locking mechanism  1000  may comprise spring  1025  and plurality of grooves  910  spaced apart via predetermined distance  1015 .  FIG. 10B  shows spring locking mechanism  1000  for unlocking slider  115  out of one of plurality of grooves  910  via a pressing motion of user  140  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 10C  shows spring locking mechanism  1000  for locking slider  115  in one of plurality of grooves  910  via a depressing motion of user  140  according to an embodiment of the present invention. Alternatively, the pressing action may lock the slider and blade in place to accommodate an index finger pressure for use of device. 
         [0103]    During use, spring locking mechanism  1000  may be advantageous to user  140  for temporarily fixing a user-preferred size of adjustable loop  125  of blade  110 . User  140  is able to simply and swiftly adjust loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125  by sliding slider  115  and fix the user-preferred size of adjustable loop  125  by pressing slider  110  inwardly to lock slider  115  in groove  910 . Then, user  140  may depress or pull slider to release slider  115  from groove  910  for further adjustment. Having adjustable loop  125  that is fixed maybe useful for allowing user  140  to use adjustable curette  100  having the user-preferred size of adjustable loop  125  for a period of time. Further, it may be appreciated that user  140  is able to adjust, lock, and unlock slider  115  using only the working hand of user  149 . This may result in saving tremendous time and performing smoother procedures using adjustable curette  100  as user  140  is able to continuously work without pause to sustain work flow and momentum. 
         [0104]    In one embodiment of the present invention, predetermined distance  1015  may comprise 1 mm. However, in other embodiments of adjustable curette  100 , predetermined distance  1015  may comprise increments as small as 0.1 mm i.e. 1 μm for certain applications. 
         [0105]    In one embodiment of the present invention, grooves  910  may comprise complementary labeled indents on an outside of handle  105  to indicate a diameter size of loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125  when slider  115  is in one of plurality of grooves  910 . There are several advantages for having labeled indents that indicate the diameter size of adjustable loop  125 . For example, user  140  may not have to approximate the size by eye and may know exactly what size is required. With labels, slider  115  may be easily configured to appropriate size of adjustable loop  125 . Also, in the event that there are two practitioners for a procedure, one may communicate to the other, “Set curette to 3 mm”. The other may easily make the adjustment accordingly by adjusting slider  115  with digit  310  to groove  910  corresponding to 3 mm. Furthermore, user  140  may be required to provide detailed, charting of the procedure including tools used. Practitioners often provide notes that state “used  7  mm and 2 mm curette”. This experience may be easily performed having labels indicating various sizes. Lastly, it may improve measurement of a wound size. Related to charting, a practitioner will usually try to approximate the size of a wound, and an accurate adjustable loop  125  may be a visual aid in this measurement. 
         [0106]    In referring now to  FIGS. 11A-11C  showing a notch locking mechanism  1100  for locking and unlocking slider  115  of adjustable curette  100  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 11B  shows a perspective view of notch locking mechanism  1100  comprising ball  1110  connected to slider  115  that is removably-securable into at least one notch  1105 .  FIG. 11C  shows perspective view of ball  1110  secured within  1105  of notch locking mechanism  1100 . As shown in  FIGS. 11A-11C , notch(es)  1105  may be located across an interior-top of sliding channel  120 , Slider  115  comprising bail  1110  may be structured to securely fit inside notch  1105  for temporarily locking slider  115  in place, thus fixing loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . As shown in  FIG. 11B , user  140  may unlock ball  1110  from notch  1105  via a forceful pushing motion on slider  115  until ball  1110  fits into next notch  1105  along slider channel  120 . Having adjustable loop  125  that is fixed may be useful for allowing user  140  to use adjustable curette  100  having the user-preferred size of adjustable loop  125  for a period of time. It should be further noted that notch(es)  1105  may be designed to be arranged predetermined distance  1015  from one another as disclosed in  FIGS. 10A-C . 
         [0107]    Referring now to  FIGS. 12A-C  showing wheel size adjuster  1200  for actuating slider  115  of adjustable curette  100  according to art embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 12A , thumb side  305  of handle  105  may comprise wheel  1205  for controlling blade  110  and adjusting a size and shape of loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . 
         [0108]      FIG. 12B  shows wheel  1205  that is rotatable by user  140  for controlling blade  110  according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIG. 12A . As shown, wheel  1285  may comprise plurality of spokes  1205 . Spokes  1205  may be useful, for contacting and moving blade  110  comprising complementary sprocket holes  1220  as illustrated in  FIG. 12C . Plurality of sprocket holes  1220  may be structured and arranged for receiving spokes  1205  of wheel  1205  of wheel size adjuster  1200  for actuating slider  115  of adjustable curette  180  according to an embodiment of the present invention. It should be noted that sprocket holes  1220  may be arranged predetermined distance from one another, it should be noted that the term slider in this description is meant as a general term to comprise all sons of methods to move one end of the blade and/or manipulate the size of the blade loop. 
         [0109]    In referring now to  FIG. 13A  shows leaf spring size adjuster  1300  for actuating slider  115  of adjustable curette  180  according to an embodiment of the present invention.  FIG. 13B  shows leaf spring size adjuster as composed of a front piece  1305  and a back piece  1306 . The back piece houses leaf spring  1113 .  FIG. 13C  shows a top view of leaf spring  1113  inside back piece  1306 . During use, leaf spring size adjuster  1300  may be advantageous to user tor temporarily fixing a user-preferred size of adjustable loop when the tops of leaf spring  1113  are fixed inside notches  1103 , User can adjust the size by sliding front piece  1305  toward the distal end or aft against back piece  1306  such that notch  1114  lowers the tips of leaf spring  1113  out of notches  1103  allowing leaf spring size adjuster  1300  to move toward the distal end or aft. 
         [0110]    In referring now to  FIGS. 14A-B  showing an alternative embodiment of adjustable curette  100  comprising handle having triangular profile  102  (although sleeve is not limited to this profile type) and comprising sleeve  1405  for further adjusting loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125  according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. As shown in  FIG. 14A , sleeve  1405  may comprise an elastic or static sleeve that may fit over distal end  106  of handle  105  during non-use.  FIG. 14B  shows a perspective view of adjustable curette  100  comprising sleeve  1405  useful for reducing loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125  by moving sleeve  1405  upward toward distal end  106  of handle  105 . In such a manner, user is able to selectively-adjust sleeve  1405  to squeeze adjustable loop  125  of blade as blade egresses blade opening  410 . It should be noted and appreciated that sleeve  1405  is best used with handle having triangular profile  102  and single blade opening  410  as opposed to handle having “Y” head profile. The sleeve may also be used in conjunction with a Y head profile. Sleeve may be loosely fit over handle, or may click and set in place for predetermined head sizes. 
         [0111]    In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, adjustable curette  100  may comprise a pair of oppositely charged magnets for adjusting loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . The oppositely charged magnets may be utilized for providing a means to adjust loop area  126  of adjustable loop  125 . For example, slider  115  may comprise at least one magnet. Sliding channel  120  may comprise an oppositely charged magnet. In such a manner, slider  115  and the opposite magnets of sliding channel  120  may become magnetically coupled and decoupled for selectively-adjusting a fixed position of adjustable loop  125 . 
         [0112]    In referring now to  FIG. 15  showing flowchart  1550  illustrating method of use  1500  for adjustable curette according to an embodiment of the present invention of  FIGS. 1-14 . As shown, method of use  1500  may comprise the steps of: step one  1501 , gripping handle  105  of adjustable curette by a working hand of user; step two  1502 , sliding slider of adjustable curette via digit of the working hand of user; step three  1503 , adjusting slider to loop area of adjustable loop defined by a user-preferred size; and step four  1504 , actuating slider in a locked-position to fix the user-preferred size of adjustable loop. Further, method of use  1500  may comprise optional step live  1505 , actuating slider  115  from the locked-position to an unlocked-position readjusting and locking once more for use. 
         [0113]    As shown in  FIG. 16A , blade  110  may include an extension  2110  at the end of the blade for attachment to the handle and/or slide mechanism. Extension  2110  may include a notch  2111  that can dock within port  2112  of handle portion  2200 , as seen in  FIG. 16B . 
         [0114]    Similarly, as shown in  FIG. 17 , blade  110  may have extension  2110 , with notch  2111 , for attachment into slider  115  having complimentary shaped port  2112 . Blade may be affixed to slider and/or handle in a multitude of ways comprising mechanical mating, gluing, soldering etc. 
         [0115]    Adjustable curette  100  may have a variety of uses. In one manner of use, adjustable curette  100  may serve as an adjustable and lockable disposable dermal curette for performing procedures involving debridements and cutting dead or diseased skin and growths of various sizes. In another manner of use, adjustable curette  100  may be used for ocular procedures. Further, adjustable curette  100  may be used for non-medical use such as pumpkin carving, wood-work, clay pottery, smoothing and finishing, food slicing, shaping, cutting, and for shaving in general, etc. 
         [0116]    When applying the curette, with a cautery function, a power lead can be affixed to the fixed end of the blade and a second power lead can be affixed to the slidable end of the blade, thus creating an electrical loop—the blade serving as a resistor. A portion of the blade may be made from a material, of high resistance, while a portion of the blade (particularly towards the slidable end) would, be comprised of a conductive material, (i.e. copper) affixed and integrated with the other material into the blade. This avoids the issue of heating the handle from a portion of the blade that may be within the handle. Alternatively, a large portion of the blade (towards the slidable end) would be insulated with a thin layer of extremely high resistance material to prevent conduction of heat beyond the blade and into the handle. 
         [0117]    Power source maybe internal, i.e. a battery (with wire lead to slidable end) housed within the handle, preferably the proximal end. As an alternative, an external, power source may be used to include a wired power source. Two leads can attach within the handle to the ends of the blade, the leads resulting in an external port or wire to allow the product to be plugged in (with an optional switch to start power on, the switch preferably being embodied on the tool itself). 
         [0118]    Adjustable curette  100  may be manufactured and provided for sale in a wide variety of sizes and shapes for a wide assortment of applications. Upon reading this specification, it should be appreciated that, trader appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design preference, user preferences, marketing preferences, cost, structural requirements, available materials, technological advances, etc, other kit contents or arrangements such as, for example, including more or less components, customized parts, different color combinations, parts may be sold separately, etc. may be sufficient. 
         [0119]    The embodiments of the invention described herein are exemplary and numerous modifications, variations and rearrangements can be readily envisioned to achieve substantially equivalent results, ail of which, are intended to be embraced within the spirit and scope of the invention.