AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

Which of the following is a mechanical method of hemostasis?

1. Electrocautery

2. Ligature

3. Compression

4. Topical hemostatic agents

The correct answer is: Ligature

The choice of ligature as a mechanical method of hemostasis is appropriate because it involves physically constricting blood vessels to halt bleeding. A ligature is a length of material, often a suture, that is tied around a blood vessel or tissue to prevent blood flow, effectively promoting hemostasis through physical means. This technique has been a foundational method in surgical practice for controlling bleeding and is particularly useful when dealing with larger blood vessels. Other options such as electrocautery and topical hemostatic agents employ different mechanisms for achieving hemostasis. Electrocautery utilizes heat to coagulate tissue and seal blood vessels, while topical hemostatic agents often rely on chemical or reactive properties to enhance clot formation. Compression can also assist in hemostasis but typically provides temporary control rather than the definitive closure of a vessel that a ligature provides. Therefore, ligature stands out as the most correct answer when specifically considering mechanical methods.