What is the primary purpose of conducting a sponge count in surgery?

The primary purpose of conducting a sponge count in surgery is to ensure that no sponges are left inside the patient's body. This practice is critical for patient safety and to prevent complications such as infections, abscess formation, or the need for additional surgeries to remove retained sponges.

During surgery, sponges are used for absorbing blood and maintaining a clear surgical field. Given their small size and the possibility of being inadvertently left behind, conducting a thorough and accurate count helps to confirm that all sponges used during the procedure have been accounted for before the wound is closed. This process is a standard protocol in surgical practice designed to safeguard patient health and enhance surgical outcomes.