Apply basic surgical techniques in obstetric and gynecologic surgery.

Application should include specialized equipment, instruments, and techniques needed for basic procedures in obstetric and gynecologic surgery (e.g., abdominal and vaginal hysterectomy):

• Along with the basic equipment used in general surgery, special equipment for obstetric and gynecologic surgery may include special beds, stirrups, leg holders, and other positioning aids, as well as a fetal monitor and warming bed for obstetric surgery. In some cases, obstetric and gynecologic surgery involves lasers and related equipment (e.g., goggles, a smoke evacuator). In addition, laparoscopic procedures require video equipment and insufflators.
• Depending on the type of surgery, specialized instruments may include those in the vaginal delivery set, basic vaginal set, cesarean section set, gynecologic abdominal set, dilation and curettage (D&C) set, and others. For example, beyond the basic laparoscopic set, an abdominal hysterectomy generally requires specialized clamps.
• Perioperative techniques and considerations vary widely among types of obstetric and gynecologic procedures.

Process/Skill Questions:

• Why is positioning an important issue in obstetric surgery?
• Why is a different instrument set indicated for each type of obstetric and gynecologic surgery? How do the sets differ?
• When might laparoscopic surgery be appropriate in obstetrics and gynecology? When might laser technology be appropriate?
• What emerging technologies are associated with the specialty of obstetric and gynecologic surgery?