The surgical tray

This article provides an overview of the most commonly used instruments for excisional surgery. It has also discussed some of the specialty instruments that may be of value. It may serve as a starting point for the outfitting of a dermatologic surgery practice. However, it is no substitute for seeing, touching, and handling the instruments. At many of the larger specialty meetings, the instrument vendors will be displaying their wares. These displays offer an excellent opportunity to evaluate the many instruments. All of these fancy shiny instruments are merely tools to be used as an extension of the surgeon's hand and brain. They should work for the surgeon in a manner that is comfortable and efficient. Only the surgeon can decide what works best.