A cephalotome is a surgical instrument used to make an incision in the head of a fetus during childbirth. There are a wide variety of synonyms for this term, depending on the culture, language, or specific medical discipline. For example, in modern medical terminology, the term "craniotome" or "cephalotribe" is sometimes used as a synonym for cephalotome. In older medical literature, similar instruments were often referred to as "embryotomy scissors" or "obstetric scissors." Other synonyms can include "cranial perforator," "fontanelle opener," or "cephalotomy knife." Regardless of the terminology used, the purpose of these instruments is always to carefully and precisely assist in difficult childbirths.