Surgical Procedures and Techniques That Aspiring Surgical Technologists Need to Know

When considering a career as a surgical technologist, one of the most exciting aspects is the opportunity to play a crucial role in the operating room (OR). Surgical technologists are key members of the surgical team, working closely with surgeons, nurses, and anesthesiologists to ensure that surgeries run smoothly. If you’re considering this career path, it’s important to understand the various types of surgical procedures and techniques, the steps involved in surgery, and the roles of the surgical team members during these operations.

In this post, we’ll take a closer look at common surgical procedures, walk you through the surgical process, and explain the vital role surgical technologists play in each step.

Common Surgical Procedures

There are many different types of surgeries, but most fall into a few general categories. Understanding these can help you get a sense of the kind of work you might be involved in as a surgical technologist.

  1. General Surgery: This includes operations on organs such as the stomach, intestines, gallbladder, appendix, and liver. Surgical technologists working in general surgery will assist with common procedures like appendectomies (removal of the appendix) and cholecystectomies (removal of the gallbladder).
  2. Orthopedic Surgery: These surgeries focus on the bones, joints, and muscles. Common procedures include repairing broken bones, replacing joints (like hip or knee replacements), and treating sports injuries. Surgical technologists assist in preparing specialized instruments like drills and saws.
  3. Cardiothoracic Surgery: These surgeries involve the heart and lungs. Common procedures include bypass surgery and valve replacements. Cardiothoracic surgeries often require a longer setup and careful preparation of complex instruments and machines, which surgical technologists are responsible for.
  4. Neurosurgery: Neurosurgical procedures focus on the brain and spinal cord. Surgical technologists in this field assist in extremely delicate operations, such as removing brain tumors or relieving pressure on the spine.
  5. OB/GYN Surgery: This includes surgeries related to childbirth, as well as operations on the reproductive organs. Surgical technologists in this field help with C-sections, hysterectomies, and other gynecological procedures.

These are just a few examples of the kinds of surgeries you might encounter as a surgical technologist. No matter the specialty, surgical technologists must be prepared to assist in a wide variety of operations.

Steps Involved in a Surgical Procedure

Although every surgery is different, most follow a standard series of steps. Here’s a general overview of what happens during a typical surgical procedure:

1. Preoperative Preparation

Before surgery begins, the surgical technologist plays a crucial role in preparing the OR. This includes:

  • Sterilizing Equipment: Surgical technologists ensure that all instruments and equipment are sterilized to prevent infection.
  • Setting Up the Operating Room: They arrange instruments on the sterile field (a specially prepared surface in the OR) and ensure all necessary supplies are available.
  • Assisting with Patient Preparation: This may include helping position the patient on the operating table, securing them to prevent movement during surgery, and preparing the incision site by cleaning and disinfecting the area.
A surgical technologist preparing instruments before a surgery

2. During Surgery

Once the surgery begins, the surgical technologist’s responsibilities continue. They must be alert, ready to assist the surgeon and other team members at a moment’s notice.

  • Passing Instruments: Surgical technologists hand instruments to the surgeon as needed. This requires knowing the names of instruments and understanding the flow of the procedure to anticipate the surgeon’s needs.
  • Maintaining the Sterile Field: The surgical technologist ensures that everything within the sterile field remains uncontaminated. This is critical for patient safety and infection control.
  • Handling Specimens: In some surgeries, tissue samples or other specimens are removed from the patient for testing. The surgical technologist is responsible for correctly labeling and handling these specimens.
  • Counting Instruments: At the end of the surgery, the surgical technologist must account for all instruments, sponges, and other materials used during the procedure to ensure that nothing is left inside the patient.

3. Postoperative Care

After the surgery is complete, the surgical technologist’s job is not over.

  • Cleaning and Re-sterilizing Equipment: Surgical technologists are responsible for cleaning and sterilizing the instruments and equipment used during surgery.
  • Transferring the Patient: They may assist in moving the patient to the recovery area and ensure the OR is cleaned and ready for the next procedure.

The Role of the Surgical Team

A surgical technologist works closely with other members of the surgical team. Each person has a specific role to play to ensure the surgery is a success.

A surgical team doing a surgery in an operating room

1. Surgeon

The surgeon is the team leader and performs the actual surgery. Surgical technologists assist the surgeon throughout the procedure, ensuring that they have the right instruments at the right time.

2. Anesthesiologist

The anesthesiologist administers anesthesia to the patient and monitors their vital signs throughout the procedure. While the anesthesiologist is focused on the patient’s well-being, surgical technologists make sure the OR is running smoothly.

3. Surgical Nurse

Surgical nurses assist with patient care before, during, and after surgery. They may help position the patient, monitor vital signs, and assist the surgeon. Surgical technologists often work side-by-side with surgical nurses, especially in maintaining the sterile field and ensuring patient safety.

4. Surgical Technologist

The surgical technologist’s role can be summed up as the surgeon’s right hand. Their primary job is to maintain a sterile environment and provide the surgeon with the instruments they need. Surgical technologists also play a significant role in infection control and patient safety, two critical factors in a successful operation.

Skills Required for a Surgical Technologist

To thrive in this role, you’ll need a combination of technical skills and personal qualities. Some of the key skills required include:

  • Attention to Detail: Surgical technologists must be meticulous in their work. Even a small mistake, such as not properly sterilizing an instrument, can lead to serious consequences for the patient.
  • Manual Dexterity: Handling delicate instruments requires a steady hand and good coordination.
  • Stamina: Surgical procedures can last for several hours, and surgical technologists must be able to stay focused and alert throughout the entire process.
  • Teamwork: Working in the OR is a team effort, and surgical technologists must be able to communicate and collaborate effectively with other members of the surgical team.

Understanding Surgeries and Procedures

Surgical technologists are essential members of the surgical team, and their work directly impacts the success of each surgery and the safety of the patient. If you’re interested in becoming a surgical technologist, understanding the types of surgeries you may assist in, the steps involved in surgery, and the role of the surgical team can help you prepare for this rewarding career. With the right training and dedication, you’ll be ready to step into the OR and make a difference in the lives of patients every day.

By pursuing a career as a surgical technologist, you’re choosing to be at the heart of life-saving procedures and to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. At CNI College, our Surgical Technology program can help equip you with the skills you need to succeed in this exciting field.