Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Which of the following structures can be stapled during a surgical procedure?

1. Bowel

2. Bronchus

3. Split thickness graft

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Stapling is a common technique used in various surgical procedures to secure tissues together or to connect different anatomical structures. It is particularly useful for creating anastomoses or closing incisions, and it offers several advantages over traditional suturing, such as speed and reduced tissue trauma. Bowel can indeed be stapled during surgical procedures, especially in gastrointestinal surgeries like resections or anastomoses. Surgical staples can efficiently join the ends of the bowel together, promoting quicker healing and reducing the risk of leakage. The bronchus can also be stapled, particularly in thoracic surgeries such as lobectomies or pneumonectomies. The use of staples allows for the secure closure of the airway, minimizing the risk of complications like air leaks. Split thickness grafts, which are used in reconstructive surgeries, can also be secured in place using staples. This method can help in maintaining proper positioning and promote the integration of the graft into the underlying tissue. Given that all three structures—bowel, bronchus, and split thickness graft—can be safely and effectively stapled during surgical procedures, it's clear that the correct answer encompasses all of the above options. This versatility in stapling various tissues highlights its importance as a surgical tool across different specialties