Actually, I believe the opposite would be true. A sharp ax would make a much "cleaner" cut than a wire saw. The serrations on the wire saw would leave jagged edges on the ends of the blood vessels, which leads to quicker clotting than a very sharp edge simply making a nice smooth cut. I don't think this is what the writers had in mind though- they were probably going for the most grisly scene possible.
At the risk of creeping Erik out further, I disagree. I was referring to bone, not soft tissue. Yes, the soft tissue would be more cleanly cut with a sharp ax...until the bone stopped the progression of the blade. The bone would likely crush, and would mash the soft tissue beneath. I do agree with the bolded part, though.
My original response was to why, in a hospital with no electricity, they wouldn't use an ax. I think a doctor would be less likely to use an ax than a rope saw, but hey - I'm just speculating here.
