Final answer:
For small animal surgery, scalpel blades such as size 10, 11, or 15 are commonly used for their precision and control. A size 23 blade may sometimes be used, although it is considered large for these surgeries. High-frequency AC is often used with electric scalpels to minimize heat and tissue damage.
Step-by-step explanation:
The size of scalpel blade commonly used in small animal surgery is often a matter of preference and specific procedure needs. In general, a smaller blade, such as a size 10, 11, or 15, might be used for finer, more precise incisions which are typical in small animal surgeries. These blades are designed to offer a good balance between precision and control which is essential for the intricate work required in such procedures.
While a size 23 blade could be considered too large for most small animal surgeries, it can be used in some circumstances depending on the nature of the surgery. Regarding surgeries involving electricity, most of the current flows from the sharp edge of the scalpel because electric fields are most intense at sharp points and edges. This is due to the concentration of electric field lines which is greater at the pointed edges. When it comes to the frequency of the AC current used typically high-frequency AC is employed because it cuts through tissue with reduced heat production and collateral damage.