BACKGROUND

Field of Use

The present invention relates to cutting devices such as safety scalpels and safety cutting devices.

Related Technology

Surgical scalpels are used by medical personnel in connection with surgical procedures ranging from simple out-patient procedures to extraordinarily complex procedures carried out under general anesthesia. When working with such a sharp instrument, there is always a danger to medical personnel of inadvertent puncture of the skin. Aside from the injury itself, the more important concern for the punctured individual relates to the potential spread of disease from a non-sterile instrument.

The use of surgical scalpels having a retractable blade has been suggested as a means for reducing the number of such puncture wounds. Indeed, a number of patents have been issued which are directed toward surgical scalpels having retractable blades. These include, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,503,262; 5,571,128; 5,569,282; 6,589,258; 6,645,216; and 6,949,109.

A tremendous effort has been made to make cutting devices that will improve safety in health care and industry. Government agencies such as OSHA have mandated the use of safer cutting devices. The industry including large medical device manufacturers and small entrepreneurial companies and individuals have attempted to produce devices that improve safety. However, studies have shown that the industry thus far has failed. For example, an industry published journal “OR Manager” published the following statement: “The products just aren't there. Unfortunately, it's hard to be compliant when we don't have good technology.” See OR Manager Vol. 21, No. 12, December 2005, p. 3. Indeed, data shows that current safety scalpels are actually not safer than traditional reusable scalpels. see Vose, J. et al., “Reducing Scalpel Injuries in the OR,” AORN Journal, Vol. 90, No. 6 (December 2009), p. 869. Thus, there exists a long felt but unmet need for improved safety scalpels that can reduce sharps injuries.

