In minimally invasive surgery, which item is inserted through a small incision to access the operative area?

In minimally invasive surgery, which item is inserted through a small incision to access the operative area?

• A. Trochars
• B. Scalpel
• C. Retractor
• D. Forceps

Answer: (A)

In minimally invasive surgery, access to the operative area is gained through small incisions using port systems. A trocar is designed for this purpose: it has a sharp obturator that punctures the tissue, and a cannula that remains in place to create a working channel for the camera and instruments. This setup allows the surgeon to reach the target area without large cuts. The other tools serve different roles: a scalpel is used to make incisions; a retractor keeps tissues open; forceps grasp and manipulate tissue. None of these provide a dedicated access channel through a small incision like a trocar does.

In minimally invasive surgery, access to the operative area is gained through small incisions using port systems. A trocar is designed for this purpose: it has a sharp obturator that punctures the tissue, and a cannula that remains in place to create a working channel for the camera and instruments. This setup allows the surgeon to reach the target area without large cuts.

The other tools serve different roles: a scalpel is used to make incisions; a retractor keeps tissues open; forceps grasp and manipulate tissue. None of these provide a dedicated access channel through a small incision like a trocar does.