INCISIONS. 



127 



rules are observed in the operations, the blade is held firmly on 

 the handle, and cannot be closed. 



Sage knives, which are much used in operations upon the foot, 

 are but convex bistouries, single or double, curved upon their 

 length, and, according to the disposition of the cutting edge, are 

 caUed right, or left, or double. The blade is generaUy firmly 



FlO. 152.— EigM, Lett and DouWe Sage KnlvoB. 



riveted in the handle, to render it more solid and better adapted 

 to the incision of the comparatively harder tissues. When made 

 to close as an ordinary pocket knife they are less soUd, and more 

 difficult to keep in good condition. 



The scissors vary also in shape, and are sometimes straight, 

 sometimes curved, and with either blunt or pointed ends. Be- 

 sides these cutting instruments, directors are often used as guides 

 to carry the knife in the desired direction, and obviate errors 

 and accidents in operating. The bistoury is held in different 



