What am I looking at?
Visual recognition
Small pointed straight-edged triangular blade on a handle, used immediately after wire access.
01-06
No. 11 scalpel blade
Skin-nick blade
Three-panel learning framework
Recognition, context, and distinction
What does it do, and where will I see it?
Use & procedural context
Makes a small, controlled dermatotomy (skin nick) to ease passage of sheaths, drains, catheters, or tunnelers. Typical procedural contexts include nearly all percutaneous procedures.
What most clearly distinguishes it from similar devices?
Key distinctions
The No. 11 blade prepares the superficial tract only; it creates a controlled skin nick after access has been secured and should not be confused with the needle that establishes target entry.