Nomenclature, functions and classification of surgical knives of Ming-Qing dynasties

Based on the diagrams of knives recorded in laryngological literature of the Qing dynasty, together with the surgical lancets unearthed in Ming tomb of Jiangyin region, the nomenclature of all surgical knives and its functions are discussed and then classified. It is claimed that the configuration of the knives as a whole, either obligue or round, are the basis of its functions and classification. Thus, the knives are divided into 4 groups, vis. lancets, curved knives, obligue - edged knives and plain knives, involving over 30 kinds of surgical knives.