CST Exam Prep| General Surgery
Knowledge| Exam Q&A| Verified 100%
What is the primary purpose of an incision during surgery?
To provide access to the surgical site for repair or removal of tissue.
How does a surgeon prevent infection during an open abdominal surgery?
By using sterile techniques, antibiotics, and proper wound closure methods.
What is the difference between a laparotomy and a laparoscopy?
A laparotomy is a large, open incision to access the abdomen, while laparoscopy uses small
incisions and a camera for minimally invasive surgery.
What is the role of sutures in wound healing?
Sutures hold tissues together to promote healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Why are drains used after certain surgeries?
Drains are used to remove excess fluids and prevent fluid accumulation in the surgical area.
How does a surgeon assess the need for tissue removal in a procedure?
The surgeon evaluates the extent of damage or disease and determines if the tissue is vital or
needs to be excised.
1
,What is a common complication following a cholecystectomy?
Infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding structures such as the bile duct.
Why is a bowel resection performed?
To remove diseased or damaged sections of the intestine, such as in cases of cancer or
obstruction.
What is the primary focus during the postoperative recovery phase?
Monitoring vital signs, ensuring pain control, and preventing complications like infection or
blood clots.
What are common surgical procedures used to treat hernias?
Herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty, which involves repairing the hernia through surgical closure
or mesh placement.
What is the purpose of a colostomy or ileostomy in surgery?
To create a new pathway for waste elimination when part of the colon or ileum is removed or
nonfunctional.
How is a mastectomy performed and when is it indicated?
A mastectomy involves removing all or part of the breast tissue, often indicated for breast
cancer.
2
, What is the difference between an open and a minimally invasive surgery?
Open surgery involves large incisions, while minimally invasive surgery uses smaller
incisions and advanced tools like cameras and lasers.
What is the role of a surgical scrub before a procedure?
To disinfect the surgeon’s hands and forearms to reduce the risk of infection during surgery.
What is a common complication of general anesthesia?
Nausea, vomiting, and difficulty waking up from anesthesia are common risks.
How do surgeons minimize blood loss during a surgical procedure?
By using careful techniques, such as cauterization, clamping blood vessels, or administering
medications to promote clotting.
What are the general steps in performing a simple excision of a skin lesion?
Local anesthesia is administered, the lesion is removed with a scalpel, and the wound is
sutured closed.
How does a surgeon ensure the correct surgical site is operated on?
By marking the surgical site, confirming the procedure with the team, and checking the
patient’s identification and consent form.
What role does a surgical assistant play during an operation?
3
Knowledge| Exam Q&A| Verified 100%
What is the primary purpose of an incision during surgery?
To provide access to the surgical site for repair or removal of tissue.
How does a surgeon prevent infection during an open abdominal surgery?
By using sterile techniques, antibiotics, and proper wound closure methods.
What is the difference between a laparotomy and a laparoscopy?
A laparotomy is a large, open incision to access the abdomen, while laparoscopy uses small
incisions and a camera for minimally invasive surgery.
What is the role of sutures in wound healing?
Sutures hold tissues together to promote healing and minimize the risk of infection.
Why are drains used after certain surgeries?
Drains are used to remove excess fluids and prevent fluid accumulation in the surgical area.
How does a surgeon assess the need for tissue removal in a procedure?
The surgeon evaluates the extent of damage or disease and determines if the tissue is vital or
needs to be excised.
1
,What is a common complication following a cholecystectomy?
Infection, bleeding, or injury to surrounding structures such as the bile duct.
Why is a bowel resection performed?
To remove diseased or damaged sections of the intestine, such as in cases of cancer or
obstruction.
What is the primary focus during the postoperative recovery phase?
Monitoring vital signs, ensuring pain control, and preventing complications like infection or
blood clots.
What are common surgical procedures used to treat hernias?
Herniorrhaphy or hernioplasty, which involves repairing the hernia through surgical closure
or mesh placement.
What is the purpose of a colostomy or ileostomy in surgery?
To create a new pathway for waste elimination when part of the colon or ileum is removed or
nonfunctional.
How is a mastectomy performed and when is it indicated?
A mastectomy involves removing all or part of the breast tissue, often indicated for breast
cancer.
2
, What is the difference between an open and a minimally invasive surgery?
Open surgery involves large incisions, while minimally invasive surgery uses smaller
incisions and advanced tools like cameras and lasers.
What is the role of a surgical scrub before a procedure?
To disinfect the surgeon’s hands and forearms to reduce the risk of infection during surgery.
What is a common complication of general anesthesia?
Nausea, vomiting, and difficulty waking up from anesthesia are common risks.
How do surgeons minimize blood loss during a surgical procedure?
By using careful techniques, such as cauterization, clamping blood vessels, or administering
medications to promote clotting.
What are the general steps in performing a simple excision of a skin lesion?
Local anesthesia is administered, the lesion is removed with a scalpel, and the wound is
sutured closed.
How does a surgeon ensure the correct surgical site is operated on?
By marking the surgical site, confirming the procedure with the team, and checking the
patient’s identification and consent form.
What role does a surgical assistant play during an operation?
3
