Surgical Tech Practice Exam

What type of scissors should be used to create a longer incision in a large vessel?

1. Standard curved scissors

2. Angled Potts Smith scissors

3. Metzenbaum scissors

4. Scissors for soft tissue

The correct answer is: Angled Potts Smith scissors

Angled Potts Smith scissors are specifically designed for dissecting and incising large vessels due to their unique shape and angled design, which allows for better access and visibility when creating longer incisions. The angled tip facilitates a controlled cut while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues, making these scissors particularly effective in vascular procedures. Using standard curved scissors or Metzenbaum scissors may not provide the same level of precision or access when dealing with large vessels. Standard curved scissors are versatile but are generally not specialized for vascular work. Metzenbaum scissors are ideal for cutting delicate tissues but are not the best choice for creating longer incisions in larger structures like vessels. Scissors designated for soft tissue may lack the functionality required to address the specifics of vascular incisions effectively. Therefore, the angled design of Potts Smith scissors is what makes them the preferred tool for this specific surgical task.