Veterinary Surgical Assistance: Instruments, Draping, and Sterile Technique

Needle Holders

Instruments used to grasp and pass suture needles with suture through tissue and for tying surgical knots.

Surgical Assistance

Veterinary technicians who serve as surgical assistants must possess a thorough understanding of preoperative patient preparation, positioning, intraoperative techniques, instrumentation, instrument handling, and postoperative wound care.

Positioning

The arrangement of the patient based on factors such as the surgery being performed, the number of surgical sites, the surgical approach, and the draping technique.

Draping

The process of covering the patient with sterile drapes after proper positioning on the surgical table, typically using sterilized packs opened by the surgical assistant.

Surgical Assistant (SA)

The individual responsible for assessing the surgical site for proper dimensions and sufficient hair removal to prevent contamination before the surgical prep.

Electrocautery Plate

A device that should be in direct contact with the patient if electrocautery is needed for the procedure.

Sterile Surgery Drapes

Drapes that establish an impervious barrier to decrease the possibility of contact between sterile instruments and nonsterile skin and hair.

Quarter Drapes

Drapes used to create a sterile surgical field, secured with towel clamps.

Towel Clamps

Devices used to secure drapes in place during surgical procedures.

Quarter Draping Technique

A method where the surgical assistant opens the quarter drape to its fullest length and width, ensuring it does not touch the patient until it is placed.

Double Layer Drapes

Drapes that provide extra protection by absorbing blood and sterile saline lavages.

Fenestrated Drapes

Surgical drapes that have an opening for the surgical site; if not fenestrated, the surgeon will create an opening with scissors.

Final Drape

A large drape placed over the patient, surgical table, and instrument table, requiring two people to handle.

Safe Distance

The distance the surgical assistant should maintain from the patient to prevent contamination of their gown.

Sterile Field

An area established by the draping process that is free from contamination, allowing for safe surgical procedures.

Surgical Prep

The process of preparing the surgical site and the patient before the surgery begins.

Instrument Packs

Sterile packs containing surgical instruments that can be opened and organized on a table once the draping is complete.

Surgical Site

The specific area of the patient's body where the surgical procedure will take place.

Contamination Prevention

Measures taken to avoid the introduction of nonsterile elements into the surgical field.

Surgical Approach

The method or technique used to access the surgical site during the procedure.