Surgeon using retractors to expose the operating field.
A mastectomy is the removal of the breast, which involves different surgical instruments during the procedure. Depending on the type of mastectomy, instruments vary from case to case. It is important to make sure that these instruments are properly functioning and most importantly sterile. The basic instruments used in a mastectomy are classified in seven types.
Dissecting
In the first part of the surgery, incisions are made with dissectors, which are either sharp or and are used to make precise incisions, the most well know example being the scalpel. Blunt instruments, such as the elevator or the curette are mostly used to scrape tissues.
Clamping
After the incision is made, the surrounding skin is clamped with the use of forceps or clips. These instruments are also used to hold not only tissues, but also other instruments. In addition, clamps stop bleeders or blood vessels if they are accidentally damaged during a mastectomy.
Retractors
During the procedure, tissue such as muscle and fat can cover the site. Retractors are used to separate those tissues to avoid any damage to them and provide a good view of the operating field. From self-retaining to malleable retractors, its size and structure varies to serve a purpose of providing optimal visibility to the area.
Cauterization
In a mastectomy, an electrocautery machine is used to remove lesions and tissues that are highly vascularized. The machine reduces the risk of a mastectomy, sealing off blood vessels by using high frequency electric currents to instantly stop bleeding.
Suction
Oozing of blood and other fluids are inevitable in a surgical procedure, including a mastectomy. Sponges are absorbable sterile cloth for wiping or absorbing pus, blood, or other fluids during a surgical procedure. Moreover, the suction machine is tied to a container where the loss of fluid can be measured and monitored during the procedure.
Drains
Before surgical closure, a drain is attached to the site to remove the remaining fluid left over from the procedure. It also allows the medical personnel to monitor the amount of bleeding during the post-operative phase. Its drainage also helps a physician determine if an infection is developing or healing. Removal of the drains is the prerogative of the surgical team, which usually leave it in place for five to six post-operative days.
Sutures, Staples, Needles
Closure of the incision site occurs after a mastectomy. The needles, along with the sutures are used to properly close the site. Sutures can be absorbable or non-absorbable. Staples, however, are used frequently nowadays to speed up the surgery and reduce the chance of infection due to an open wound.
Tags: blood other, blood other fluids, blood vessels, during procedure, operating field
