Hammer. (See Fig. [16].) The steel hammer of the amputation- or bone-sets is often of great service in autopsy work. The hook at the end of the handle may be used to lift up the skull-cap after the sawing is completed.
Mallet. (See Fig. [17].) A wooden mallet is necessary for the use of the Brunetti chisels. It may be loaded with lead or the end may be covered with felt to deaden the sound of the blows.
Forceps. (See Figs. [18], [19], [20].) Dissecting forceps of various types are useful in the finer dissections. Cover-glass forceps should be at hand for use in the taking of smears. A pair of strong bone-forceps may be of occasional service in cutting ribs or small bones. When the spinal canal is opened by means of the Brunetti chisels or rhachiotome the loosened fragments of the vertebræ should be jerked off by means of lion-forceps, or a strong pair of ordinary nippers may be used for the same purpose.
Fig. 7—Costotome
Fig. 8—Large Autopsy Saw
Miscellaneous Instruments. (See Figs. [21], [22], [23], [24], [25].) Probes of various sizes, grooved and curved directors, retractors, catheters, both metal and flexible, injection-syringe, blow-pipe with valve, trocar, cannulas, hand-drill for wiring bones, an iron-vise, etc., all find a place of usefulness in autopsy technique. In institution work motor band-saws, trephining or dental engines, drills, etc., may greatly facilitate the progress of autopsies when the daily number of these is great and when special examinations of the ear or nose are required. The needles for sewing up the incisions should be large, strong and slightly curved. A strong linen thread should be used for stitching and for ligatures.
Fig. 9—Small Autopsy Saw