The #15 blade is most often used for short or curved incisions. In contrast to the #10 blade, the #15 blade is held like a pencil, allowing the curve of the blade to come in contact with the skin. In this grasp, control of the scalpel is with the wrist, allowing more precise cutting. In order to stabilize the scalpel, the heel of the hand may be rested on the patient.
When making a curved incision, it is especially important to keep the scalpel perpendicular to the skin, as it is easy to inadvertently bevel the skin edges in this setting. In making an elliptical incision, make sure to draw the scalpel away from the corners in order to prevent cross-hatching of the incision.
