American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

Using a tourniquet in orthopedic procedures serves the primary purpose of controlling blood flow and minimizing blood loss during surgeries. By applying a tourniquet, the surgeon can temporarily occlude blood vessels in the area of the operation, which helps maintain a blood-free surgical field. This is crucial, as excessive bleeding can obscure the surgeon's view, complicate the procedure, and increase the risk of complications, such as hematoma formation.

The use of a tourniquet allows for improved visibility of the surgical site, facilitating more precise and efficient work. Additionally, it minimizes the risk of blood loss during procedures that involve bone, ligaments, or joint work, where blood vessels are more commonly affected. Overall, controlling blood flow is key to the safety and success of orthopedic surgeries.