Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a mechanical method of hemostasis?

1. Laser

2. Thrombin

3. Ligature

4. Electrosurgery

The correct answer is: Ligature

A ligature is classified as a mechanical method of hemostasis because it involves the physical act of tying off blood vessels to stop bleeding. This technique mechanically occludes the vessel, preventing blood flow and allowing for the formation of a clot in the area. It is a direct and traditional approach that has been used for centuries in surgical procedures. Other options, such as laser and electrosurgery, utilize energy-based methods to achieve hemostasis by thermal coagulation, which alters the tissue to sever blood supply. Thrombin, on the other hand, is a biological agent that promotes clotting but does not mechanically obstruct blood vessels. Thus, ligature stands out as the appropriate choice for a mechanical method of hemostasis among the options provided.