Which instrument is needed to smooth the surface of the patella during a knee arthroscopy?

To smooth the surface of the patella during a knee arthroscopy, a shaver is the appropriate instrument. The shaver is specifically designed to remove soft tissue and smooth out surfaces in arthroscopic procedures. It has a rotating mechanism and a cutting blade that allows for effective debridement and smoothing of surfaces, which is crucial for enhancing gliding motion and facilitating proper joint function post-surgery.

In the context of knee arthroscopy, particularly when addressing issues related to the patella, achieving a smooth surface is important to minimize friction and promote healing, as well as to improve the overall outcome of the procedure. While the rasp can be used for sculpting or modifying bone surfaces, it is not primarily intended for smoothing them as effectively as a shaver does in a soft tissue context. Scissors are generally used for cutting tissue, and forceps are utilized for grasping or holding tissue, making them unsuitable for the specific task of smoothing the patellar surface.