What type of sponges does the CST use to cover the bone flap during a craniotomy?

During a craniotomy, the use of cottonoid sponges is specifically designed for covering and protecting the bone flap and the brain. These sponges are made from a soft, absorbent material that has several advantages in the surgical setting.

Cottonoid sponges are highly absorbent, allowing them to soak up blood and other fluids while minimizing the risk of adhering to tissues, which is particularly important in neurosurgery. Their texture is gentle enough to avoid trauma to the delicate structures surrounding the brain, making them ideal for use in this sensitive area. Additionally, the size and shape of cottonoids can be easily manipulated to fit the surgical field, providing effective coverage for the exposed tissue and helping to maintain a clear view for the surgeon.

While hydrophilic sponges and surgical sponges serve important roles in various procedures, they do not possess the same combination of absorbency and softness that cottonoids provide in neurosurgical applications. Lap sponges, being larger and typically used for general hemostasis, are not suitable for covering delicate areas like a bone flap. Therefore, cottonoid sponges remain the preferred choice in such scenarios.