Title: Apply basic surgical techniques in obstetric and gynecologic surgery.
Course: Surgical Technologist II (14056--II) > Section: Demonstrating Basic Surgical Techniques

Application should include specialized equipment, instruments, and techniques needed for basic procedures in obstetric and gynecologic surgery (e.g., abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy):

- Along with the basic equipment used in general surgery, special equipment for obstetric and gynecologic surgery may include special beds, stirrups, leg holders, and other positioning aids, as well as a fetal monitor and warming bed for obstetric surgery. In some cases, obstetric and gynecologic surgery involves lasers and related equipment (e.g., goggles, a smoke evacuator). In addition, laparoscopic procedures require video equipment and insufflators.
- Depending on the type of surgery, specialized instruments may include those in the vaginal delivery set, basic vaginal set, cesarean section set, gynecologic abdominal set, dilation and curettage (D&C) set, and others. For example, beyond the basic laparoscopic set, an abdominal hysterectomy generally requires specialized clamps.
- Perioperative techniques and considerations vary widely among types of obstetric and gynecologic procedures.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is positioning an important issue in obstetric surgery?
- Why is a different instrument set indicated for each type of obstetric and gynecologic surgery? How do the sets differ?
- When might laparoscopic surgery be appropriate in obstetrics and gynecology? When might laser technology be appropriate?
- What emerging technologies are associated with the specialty of obstetric and gynecologic surgery?