In the late 1800's and early 1900's, surgery was slowly becoming divided into specialties, and there was an increased demand for smaller and more delicate instruments. The development of stainless steel in Germany during World War I provided a better material for making surgical instruments. Indeed, most surgical instruments used today are manufactured from stainless steel. The classification and type of steel depend on the amounts of iron, carbon and chromium used, which means that stainless steel can have different qualities. Surgical instruments can be very expensive, so it its important to be knowledgeable about instruments, and their proper care and handling.
Scalpels are probably the oldest of all surgical instruments.
Scalpel handles have one end for attaching a blade. The blades are curved or straight, and the tips may be blunt or sharp. Straight mayo scissors, frequently called suture scissors, are used to cut sutures. For surgery in deep areas of the body, long scissors are used to allow visualization and better control of the dissecting site. Other sharp dissectors include osteotomes, rangers, saws and drills.