CST Surgical Procedures & Techniques 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgical technologist should anticipate the need for which instrument to dissect the hepatocystic triangle?
- Maryland dissector (Correct answer)
- Babcock clamp
- Kocher clamp
- DeBakey forceps
Correct answer: Maryland dissector
The Maryland dissector is the standard instrument for blunt and sharp dissection of the hepatocystic triangle to expose the cystic duct and artery.
Question 2: When setting up for an open appendectomy, which incision is most commonly used?
- McBurney incision (Correct answer)
- Pfannenstiel incision
- Midline laparotomy
- Kocher incision
Correct answer: McBurney incision
The McBurney incision is a muscle-splitting incision made at McBurney's point (1/3 the distance from ASIS to umbilicus) providing direct access to the appendix.
Question 3: During a total hip arthroplasty, the scrub technologist should have which type of saw ready for femoral neck osteotomy?
- Oscillating saw (Correct answer)
- Reciprocating saw
- Sagittal saw
- Gigli saw
Correct answer: Oscillating saw
An oscillating saw is used for femoral neck osteotomy because its back-and-forth blade motion minimizes soft tissue damage during bone cutting.
Question 4: A patient is undergoing a CABG procedure. After harvesting the saphenous vein, the scrub tech should ensure the graft is stored in which solution?
- Heparinized normal saline (Correct answer)
- Lactated Ringer's solution
- 10% formalin
- Sterile water
Correct answer: Heparinized normal saline
Heparinized normal saline prevents clotting and maintains vessel viability during the period between harvest and anastomosis.
Question 5: During a thyroidectomy, identification and preservation of which structure is the primary concern to prevent postoperative voice hoarseness?
- Recurrent laryngeal nerve (Correct answer)
- Superior laryngeal nerve
- Hypoglossal nerve
- Vagus nerve
Correct answer: Recurrent laryngeal nerve
The recurrent laryngeal nerve innervates the intrinsic muscles of the larynx and its injury causes hoarseness or loss of voice.
Question 6: When assisting with a craniotomy, which instrument does the scrub tech pass to elevate the bone flap after burr holes are connected?
- Penfield dissector (Correct answer)
- Osteotome
- Kerrison rongeur
- Adson periosteal elevator
Correct answer: Penfield dissector
The Penfield dissector (typically No. 3) is used to separate the dura from the inner table of the skull before elevating the bone flap.
Question 7: During a transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP), which irrigating solution is used to prevent electrical current dispersion?
- Glycine 1.5% (Correct answer)
- Normal saline
- Sterile water
- Lactated Ringer's solution
Correct answer: Glycine 1.5%
Glycine 1.5% is a non-electrolyte, non-hemolytic solution that does not disperse monopolar electrical current used during TURP resection.
CST Surgical Procedures & Techniques 2
During a laparoscopic cholecystectomy, the surgical technologist should anticipate the need for which instrument to dissect the hepatocystic triangle?