Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

What is typically utilized to prevent the bladder from injury during pelvic surgery?

1. Ureter

2. Vagina

3. Urethra

4. Bladder

The correct answer is: Bladder

In the context of pelvic surgery, the bladder is at risk of injury due to its anatomical position and proximity to other structures. To prevent damage during surgical procedures, the surgical team typically uses protective measures that can include retractors for the bladder or other techniques. While the bladder itself doesn't serve a protective role, options like the ureter, vagina, and urethra are anatomical structures related to the pelvic region but are not specifically designed to protect the bladder during surgery. The use of the bladder as the focus from which protective strategies are considered is why it's relevant in this context. It's important to ensure the integrity of all surrounding structures, including the bladder, which is why surgical protocols and practices emphasize awareness of its location during surgery to avoid injury.