CSFA Intraoperative Procedures and Techniques 3

Question 1

During a robotic-assisted laparoscopic procedure, the surgical first assistant is positioned at the patient's bedside. What is the primary role of the bedside assistant during robotic surgery?

Accepted Answer

Exchange instruments, suction, and provide manual retraction as needed

Answer

The bedside assistant exchanges instruments through non-robotic ports, provides suction, and offers manual assistance the robotic system cannot perform.

Question 2

A patient undergoing spinal surgery in the prone position develops intraoperative hypotension. What positional complication should the first assistant alert the team to evaluate?

Accepted Answer

Abdominal compartment compression reducing venous return

Answer

In prone positioning, inadequate abdominal padding causes abdominal compression, increasing inferior vena cava pressure and reducing venous return to the heart.

Question 3

When performing a femoral-popliteal bypass, which conduit is preferred for best long-term patency?

Accepted Answer

Autologous saphenous vein

Answer

Autologous saphenous vein provides the best long-term patency for infrainguinal bypass due to its biological compatibility and resistance to infection.

Question 4

During an open cholecystectomy, the surgical first assistant identifies Calot's triangle. Which three structures form the boundaries of this triangle?

Accepted Answer

Cystic duct, common hepatic duct, and inferior surface of the liver

Answer

Calot's triangle is bounded by the cystic duct inferiorly, the common hepatic duct medially, and the inferior surface of the liver superiorly.

Question 5

The surgical first assistant is closing a laparotomy incision. Which suture technique is most appropriate for fascial closure to reduce the risk of incisional hernia?

Accepted Answer

Running mass closure with slowly absorbable or permanent suture

Answer

Running mass closure using a slowly absorbable suture such as PDS or looped nylon provides superior tensile strength and reduces incisional hernia rates.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Intraoperative Procedures and Techniques 3