Cartilage Knife

Description

Cartilage Knife

This cartilage knife has a short, strong 4 in blade on a long handle, 25.5 cm overall. Pathologists use it to cut through the costal cartilages when opening the chest at autopsy.

Built for cartilage

Costal cartilage is tough, so a thin blade flexes and slips. Instead, this knife uses a short, stiff blade with leverage from the long handle. As a result, each cut goes through with steady pressure.

Where the cartilage knife fits

It belongs in the autopsy set beside the brain and organ knives. In addition, anatomy departments use one when preparing specimens.

Care

Clean the blade after the session and dry it fully. Also check the edge regularly, since cartilage dulls a blade over time.

Using the cartilage knife

Cut each costal cartilage just medial to its junction with the rib. Next, work from the lower ribs upward, keeping the blade angled away from the underlying organs. Then lift the sternal plate once all cuts are complete. For older patients, however, calcified cartilage may need rib shears instead. Also, keep the blade sharp, because a dull edge needs more force and slips more easily. A steady routine of honing keeps the knife reliable. Finally, wipe the blade between cuts so tissue does not build up along the edge during the examination.

Cartilage knife specification

• Blade: 4 in
• Overall length: 25.5 cm
• Stainless steel, reusable

Our warranty

Our cartilage knife has three years against manufacturing defects. Before it ships, we inspect it in Atlanta. For care, visit the FAQs. In addition, ASTM F899 applies to surgical stainless steel, and our autopsy knives include brain and organ patterns.

Material note

Please check the blade size listed. Professional use only. Because the steel contains nickel, we cannot accept liability for allergic reactions. See FDA guidance on metals.