Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which procedures require isolation of instruments from the rest of the operative field?

1. Open intestinal anastomosis

2. Common duct exploration

3. Exteriorization of colostomy

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Isolation of instruments from the rest of the operative field is crucial in surgical procedures that involve areas that might be contaminated or require a heightened level of sterility. In these cases, maintaining the integrity of instruments specifically for a certain portion of the procedure helps prevent infection and ensures a safe and optimal environment for the surgical team. Open intestinal anastomosis is a procedure where two segments of the intestine are joined. Given the potential risk of contamination from intestinal contents, isolating instruments used during this procedure is key to managing such risks. Common duct exploration, involving the bile duct, also necessitates instrument isolation. This procedure often requires meticulous techniques because it deals with bile, which, if spilled, can lead to serious complications such as infection and inflammation. The exteriorization of a colostomy involves bringing a portion of the colon to the abdominal surface, and this procedure requires careful handling of instruments as it involves the bowel and could be at risk of contamination. Since all these procedures have inherent risks associated with contamination and require stringent protocols to maintain sterility, it is essential that instruments are isolated from the rest of the operative field to ensure patient safety and optimal surgical outcomes. Thus, the correct answer encompasses all of these procedures, highlighting the importance of maintaining instrument separation during