Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which surgical instrument is typically used for suctioning during tonsillectomy?

1. Yankauer

2. Poole

3. Frazier

4. Baron

The correct answer is: Yankauer

The Yankauer suction tip is the instrument commonly used for suctioning during a tonsillectomy. Its design features a rigid structure with a wide, curved tip, allowing it to efficiently aspirate fluids and debris while maintaining visibility and access to the surgical field. This is particularly important during a tonsillectomy, where blood and other secretions may obscure the surgeon's view and hinder the procedure. The Yankauer is effective for quick and controlled suctioning, which is essential for maintaining a clear operative area. Other suction instruments like the Poole are typically used in abdominal surgeries for suctioning large volumes of fluids and are not specialized for the focused area and precision required in a tonsillectomy. The Frazier suction tip is more suited for delicate procedures such as neurosurgery, allowing for small, precise suctioning but may not provide the necessary suction capacity needed for tonsillar removal. The Baron suction tip, while useful for similar purposes in endoscopic procedures, is not the primary instrument for tonsillectomy. Thus, the Yankauer's combination of design, efficiency, and suitability for the tonsillectomy procedure makes it the correct choice for suctioning in this context.