Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

What is the next step for reattachment of a severed digit after debridement?

1. Vessel reanastomosis

2. Nerve reanastomosis

3. Bone to bone fixation

4. Tendon to tendon fixation

The correct answer is: Bone to bone fixation

In the scenario of reattaching a severed digit after debridement, the logical sequence of surgical repair typically begins with addressing the vascular supply, specifically vessel reanastomosis. This step is crucial because restoring blood flow to the reattached digit is essential for its viability. If the vessels are not reattached, the tissue can become ischemic, leading to necrosis. After ensuring blood supply is restored, the next steps would involve nerve, bone, and tendon repairs. When considering the reattachment of a severed digit, debridement is performed to remove any non-viable or contaminated tissue before reestablishing the structural and functional integrity of the digit. Following vessel reanastomosis, attention should then turn to the repair of the skeletal framework, typically through stabilization such as bone fixation. This step is critical as it provides the structural foundation that allows for proper alignment and healing of the digit. After the bones are stabilized, repairs to the tendons and nerves can follow. Therefore, while fixation of bone is a necessary step following debridement in digit reattachment, the very next and first priority after debridement should really involve ensuring vascular integrity through vessel reanastomosis. Thus, the initial