CSFA Intraoperative Surgical Procedures 2

Question 1

During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgical first assistant notes the cystic duct has not been clearly identified. What is the most appropriate next action?

Accepted Answer

Alert the surgeon and advocate for further dissection of Calot's triangle

Answer

Failure to clearly identify the cystic duct before clipping risks bile duct injury; the SFA must advocate for safe dissection before proceeding.

Question 2

When assisting with a total knee arthroplasty, which retractor is most commonly used to expose the medial compartment?

Accepted Answer

Hohmann retractor

Answer

Hohmann retractors are curved and designed to lever around bone, making them ideal for orthopedic joint exposure.

Question 3

A patient undergoing open abdominal surgery develops a sudden drop in SpO2 and elevated peak airway pressures. The surgical first assistant should first:

Accepted Answer

Notify the anesthesia provider immediately

Answer

Sudden SpO2 drop with elevated airway pressures suggests a ventilatory emergency requiring immediate anesthesia intervention.

Question 4

Which suture material is most appropriate for closing a contaminated abdominal fascia?

Accepted Answer

Poliglecaprone 25 (monofilament absorbable)

Answer

Monofilament absorbable sutures like poliglecaprone resist harboring bacteria compared to braided sutures in contaminated fields.

Question 5

During retraction of the bowel, which technique best prevents serosal injury?

Accepted Answer

Packing moist laparotomy sponges around bowel before applying retractors

Answer

Moist laparotomy sponges cushion and protect the bowel serosa from injury by mechanical retractors.

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA - Certified Surgical First Assistant Practice Test

CSFA Intraoperative Surgical Procedures 2