CSFA Surgical Equipment and Technology Flashcards
6 cards from real CSFA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 CSFA Surgical Equipment and Technology flashcards as text
During a laparoscopic case, the surgeon reports poor visualization due to fogging of the scope lens. What is the first corrective action?
Answer: Warm or apply anti-fog solution to the lens before reinsertion
Warming the scope (in warm saline or with anti-fog solution) before insertion equalizes the temperature differential that causes condensation on the lens.
Which type of retractor system uses a fixed frame attached to the operating table to maintain exposure without requiring human assistance?
Answer: Bookwalter retractor system
The Bookwalter system attaches to the OR table via a post and ring, allowing multiple interchangeable blades to maintain abdominal exposure without a dedicated assistant.
What is the primary safety concern specific to using an argon beam coagulator (ABC)?
Answer: Argon gas insufflation into the body cavity can cause gas embolism or pneumothorax if the cavity is closed
Argon gas delivered by the ABC can accumulate in body cavities, creating a risk of gas embolism or tension pneumothorax if there is no exit route for the gas.
A powered stapling device fires but the staple line is incomplete. What is the most likely cause?
Answer: Tissue thickness exceeded the staple cartridge's range, or the cartridge was not fully seated
Misfire or incomplete staple formation occurs when tissue is thicker than the cartridge accommodates or when the cartridge is not properly locked into the device.
When using intraoperative ultrasound, the surgical first assistant should cover the sterile ultrasound probe with:
Answer: A sterile ultrasound probe cover/sheath specifically designed for intraoperative use
A sterile probe sheath maintains sterility of the operative field and protects the probe when it contacts intraoperative tissues or fluids.
Which parameter does pulse oximetry measure, and what is its primary intraoperative limitation?
Answer: It measures peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) via light absorption; it is unreliable with poor peripheral perfusion or motion artifact
Pulse oximetry uses infrared light to estimate oxyhemoglobin saturation but becomes inaccurate when peripheral vasoconstriction, hypothermia, or motion reduces the signal.