Which clipper blade number is typically used for surgical clips?

The number 50 clipper blade is commonly used for surgical clips because it provides a close and precise cut that is ideal for preparing an animal’s skin for surgery. A 50 blade leaves the coat approximately 0.4 mm in length, which is short enough to effectively remove hair while minimizing the risk of leaving behind any residual hair that could harbor bacteria or affect the surgical procedure. This close clipping is essential for ensuring a clean surgical site, facilitating better visibility for the surgeon, and reducing the risk of infection post-operation.

When preparing an animal for surgery, proper clipper blade selection is critical to the cleanliness and success of the procedure. Clip blade numbers lower than 50, such as 40, provide a slightly longer cut, which may not be as effective in surgical settings. Meanwhile, higher blade numbers like 60 and 70 would leave an even shorter fur length that could potentially irritate the skin beneath or could remove too much hair, risking exposure of the skin to dirt and pathogens. Therefore, the choice of a 50 blade strikes the right balance of close cutting while maintaining skin integrity.