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Which instrument is most appropriate for a surgeon extracting a piece of the nasal septum during a septoplasty?

  1. Kerrison

  2. Scalpel

  3. Hemostat

  4. Forceps

The correct answer is: Kerrison

The most appropriate instrument for extracting a piece of the nasal septum during a septoplasty is the Kerrison. This tool is specifically designed for cutting and removing bone and dense tissue, making it ideal for procedures involving the nasal septum, which consists of both cartilage and bone. The Kerrison’s shape and sharp edges allow for precise bone removal while minimizing trauma to the surrounding tissues. A scalpel, while useful for making incisions, does not provide the same efficacy in bone removal as the Kerrison. Hemostats are primarily used to clamp blood vessels and control bleeding, which is crucial but not the focus during the extraction of tissue. Forceps are used to grasp or hold tissue but are not intended for cutting or extracting specific structures like bone or cartilage effectively. Thus, the Kerrison is the best choice for this specific surgical task.