128 



ELEMENTABY OPERATIONS. 



Fig. 153. — VariouB Shapes of Scissors. 



positions, according to circumstances, as we shall proceed to point 

 out and classify. 



1st. Held as a writing pen. — That is, with the handle resting 

 on the back of the hand, the thumb, index and medius finger on 

 each side of the blade, the other two fingers resting on the skin. 



Figs. 154 and 155.— Bistoury held as a Writing Pen. 



In this position the edge of the blade may be turned either down- 

 ward or upward. The division mentioned by Gourdon, with the 

 fingers extended or flexed upon the blade is scarcely, and at best 

 but a variety. 



2d. The instrument may be held as the how of a violin, or 

 the thumb on one side of the articulation of the blade, with the 

 handle and all the fingers on the opposite side, the index on the 

 back of the blade, the medius on the articulation opposite the 

 thumb and the other two fingers on the side of the handle. 

 None of the fingers must be allowed to divert the instrument from 

 being carried horizontally upon the tissues. In this position the 

 edge of the blade may be turned either downward or upward. 



