Most of the orthopedic cutting tools being used nowadays by surgeons frequently obtain modest engineering attention beyond the considerations of size and shape. Cutting edge geometries of orthopedic cutting tools are often modeled after those used within the metal cutting industry, because there is a large body of existing information relative to cutting tool theory that simplify the design and manufacturing processes of orthopedic cutting tools.

Such information is then applied to the requirements of a particular orthopedic application, saving time and allowing more effort to be spent on improving implant performance. However, as orthopedic implant technology matures, deficiencies in orthopedic cutting tool performance become worthwhile targets for improvement. Two orthopedic cutting tools that respond especially well to these improvement efforts are calcar and patella cutters. These orthopedic cutting tools differ from most cutting tools in that they are designed to cut with the flat, bottom face of the tool. Orthopedic cutting tools made in this manner will cut bone to the desired shape, but tend to have drawbacks. The orthopedic cutting tools have an impeded flow path for shavings and cutting edge geometry is a poor match for bone resulting to poor cutting edge sharpness and poor cutting edge retention. Shavings produced by a flat face orthopedic cutting tool, like the two orthopedic cutting tools mentioned, have a very difficult flow path. Almost immediately after the cut, these orthopedic cutting tools must make a right angle turn, then follow a long and narrow channel before clearing the tool. The source of power for pushing shavings through this path is additional torque and thrust that must be applied to maintain cutting action. As if increased torque and pressure were not bad enough, the heat produced as a byproduct of this orthopedic tool inefficiency can cause necrosis to the tissues thus causing more harm.

It is intuitively obvious that a dull orthopedic cutting tool does not cut well but sad to say there are a lot of dull tools in use. Some orthopedic cutting tools are dull because of abusive handling and improper care. Other orthopedic cutting tools are dull because they were never processed properly in the first place. One issue to address when processing a cutting edge of an orthopedic tool is the burr that is produced from the orthopedic cutting tool. This must be removed for proper performance of the orthopedic tool, but the method of removal must be gentle enough so as not to damage the edge of the orthopedic cutting tool. Unfortunately, some process specifications call for abrasive blasting of the cutting edge of the orthopedic tool. While this process removes the burr of the orthopedic cutting instrument, resultant damage to the cutting edge is severe, and performance of the orthopedic instrument will be poor. A better choice is rubbing or blasting the orthopedic cutting tool with a non abrasive, soft material.

While differences between implants from various manufacturers diminish, distinctions in instrumentation become more apparent. Orthopedic cutting Instruments that perform poorly can adversely impact implant performance. By optimizing calcar and patella orthopedic cutting tools, significant improvements can be obtained. These orthopedic cutting tools cut with less torque, pressure, and heat thereby causing less damage to tissue. Shavings produced by these orthopedic cutting tools are more suitable for use as grafting material, and cutting edge of the tool is retained for a longer period of time.

The quality of the work of the surgeon depends upon their sense of artistry. As is the case with artisans in any profession, the employment of efficient, high quality orthopedic cutting tools can only help the surgeon achieve a superior level of craftsmanship.