AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

What incision is also known as a lower oblique?

1. Transverse incision

2. Vertical incision

3. Inguinal

4. Paramedian incision

The correct answer is: Inguinal

The correct answer pertains to the inguinal incision, often referred to as a lower oblique incision due to its angled orientation. This type of incision is typically used in surgical procedures involving the groin area, such as hernia repairs. The oblique nature of this incision provides optimal access to the structures within the inguinal canal while minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Inguinal incisions are specifically designed to approach the inguinal area more effectively compared to other incisions that might not offer the same level of accessibility or visibility. The angled approach allows surgeons to navigate anatomical landmarks with precision, crucial for interventions like repairing inguinal hernias or accessing the spermatic cord. While transverse, vertical, and paramedian incisions serve their purposes in other surgical scenarios, they do not fit the criteria of a "lower oblique" incision as closely as the inguinal incision does. Transverse and vertical incisions are oriented horizontally and vertically, respectively, while a paramedian incision is usually placed adjacent to the midline, without the characteristic oblique angle that is noted with an inguinal incision.