CSFA Intraoperative Procedures and Techniques Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a laparoscopic procedure, the CSFA is controlling the camera.
The surgeon repeatedly complains of a poor, unstable image and difficulty with depth perception.
Which of the following is the MOST critical skill for the CSFA to improve to resolve this issue?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining a stable camera hand and anticipating the surgeon's movements.

Answer

Frequently cleaning the laparoscope lens intra-abdominally.

Answer

Ensuring the light source is at its maximum brightness setting.

Answer

Using a 0-degree scope exclusively for better orientation.

Question 2

A CSFA is assisting in the closure of a patient's fascia after a midline laparotomy. The surgeon requests a suture that is absorbable, has high tensile strength, and is a monofilament to reduce the risk of infection. Which of the following sutures would be the most appropriate choice?

Accepted Answer

Polydioxanone (PDS)

Answer

Silk

Answer

Polypropylene (Prolene)

Answer

Chromic Gut

Question 3

When assisting with patient positioning for a procedure in the lateral decubitus position, the CSFA must be particularly vigilant to prevent injury to which of the following nerve structures?

Accepted Answer

The brachial plexus by using an axillary roll and limiting arm abduction.

Answer

The sciatic nerve by avoiding excessive hip flexion.

Answer

The femoral nerve by padding under the knees.

Answer

The obturator nerve by preventing hyperabduction of the legs.

Question 4

A surgeon is using a monopolar electrosurgical unit (ESU) for dissection. The CSFA observes that the surgeon is frequently activating the ESU pencil while the tip is not in direct contact with the tissue. This technique increases the risk of which of the following intraoperative hazards?

Accepted Answer

Capacitive coupling

Answer

Direct coupling

Answer

Electrosurgical desiccation

Answer

Insufficient hemostasis

Question 5

During a splenectomy, the surgeon encounters diffuse, low-pressure oozing from the splenic bed after the organ has been removed. Traditional methods like suture ligation and electrocautery are not practical for this large, raw surface. Which of the following would be an appropriate adjunctive hemostatic technique for the CSFA to prepare?

Accepted Answer

Preparing a topical hemostatic agent, such as oxidized regenerated cellulose.

Answer

Applying bone wax to the entire surface.

Answer

Requesting a vascular clamp for aortic cross-clamping.

Answer

Irrigating the area with sterile water.

Question 6

Which of the following describes the primary principle of Halsted's surgical techniques, which a CSFA must consistently apply when handling tissues?

Accepted Answer

Gentle tissue handling to minimize trauma and preserve blood supply.

Answer

Using the largest suture possible to ensure wound strength.

Answer

Performing rapid, forceful retraction for maximum exposure.

Answer

Routinely using drains in all clean wounds to prevent hematomas.