AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

What instrument is used by the surgeon to intermittently remove prostatic tissue during a TURP?

1. Resectoscope

2. Ellik evacuator

3. Balloon catheter

4. Electrosection unit

The correct answer is: Ellik evacuator

The accurate choice for the instrument used by the surgeon to intermittently remove prostatic tissue during a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP) is the Ellik evacuator. The Ellik evacuator is specifically designed to remove tissue and fluid from the surgical site during procedures like TURP, allowing for effective extraction of resected prostatic tissue without hindering the surgery's visibility or progress. During the TURP procedure, the prostate is resected using a resectoscope, which emits electrical current to cut tissue, but the actual removal of that tissue is often facilitated by the Ellik evacuator. This device can quickly and efficiently clear the operative area of tissue fragments and fluid, thereby assisting the surgeon in maintaining a clear field of vision and facilitating continuous operation. Other instruments like the resectoscope are integral to the procedure but do not serve the function of tissue removal itself. For instance, the balloon catheter is typically used for different purposes, such as dilation or temporary control of bleeding. Similarly, the electrosection unit pertains to the ability to cut and coagulate tissue but does not actively remove it. Thus, the role of the Ellik evacuator is vital for the intermittent removal of prostatic