This study compared the instrument performance and tissue healing of a steel scalpel with a $CO_2$ laser in an animal uterine surgery model. Five Landrace and Yorkshire mixed breed pigs were used. Two symmetrical incisions were made in the uterine of each pig. One incision was made on the left side of the uterine horn using a steel scalpel, while the other incision was performed on the right side using a $CO_2$ laser with an 8W output power. Each instrument was evaluated clinically for speed, ease of incision, and extent of bleeding. An ovariohysterectomy was performed at 21 days after the surgical procedure for a histological examination. The scalpel was an easier instrument to use in the confines of the uterine tissue, compared with the laser. However, there is no significant difference between the two groups. The amount of bleeding was less in the laser group but the time of the incisions was shorter with the scalpel. Postoperative uterus adhesion in the $CO_2$ laser incisions was lower than the scalpel incisions. Scalpel incisions showed complete restoration of the epithelium and endometrial gland. On the other hand, the laser incisions showed incomplete restoration of the epithelium and endometrial gland. Although the scalpel produced less damage to the uterine tissue and was easier to handle than the $CO_2$ laser, it did not provide hemostasis that was helpful for use on highly vascular tissue. The $CO_2$ laser provided good hemostasis but delayed wound healing.