What is a common device used to control bleeding during surgery?

Electrocautery is a common device used to control bleeding during surgery by utilizing thermal energy to coagulate blood vessels. This process involves passing an electric current through a metal probe, which heats up and can then cauterize tissues, sealing blood vessels and minimizing blood loss. This technique is particularly valuable in surgical settings because it can swiftly stop active bleeding and provide hemostasis, allowing surgeons to operate with a clearer view as it reduces the presence of blood in the surgical field.

Although hemostatic clips, surgical staplers, and suction devices play roles in surgical procedures, they do not primarily function to control bleeding. Hemostatic clips are used to occlude blood vessels, but electrocautery provides more immediate and efficient hemostatic control during surgery. Staplers are more commonly used for closing wounds or anastomosing tissues rather than directly addressing bleeding, while suction devices are utilized for clearing blood and fluids from the surgical area rather than for stopping bleeding itself.