Which type of instrument is specifically designed for cutting tissue during surgery?

The scalpel is specifically designed for cutting tissue during surgery, making it the appropriate choice in this context. A scalpel features a sharp blade that allows for precise incisions in various types of tissues, which is essential for surgical procedures. Its design emphasizes control and accuracy, ensuring that surgeons can make clean cuts with minimal damage to surrounding areas.

The other instruments serve different functions: clamps are used to occlude blood vessels or tissues, forceps are designed for grasping or holding tissues, and electrocautery is used for cutting and coagulating tissue using electrical energy. Each of these tools is critical in the surgical setting, but their purposes are distinct from the primary function of the scalpel.