What is one of the main functions of a luminal instrument?

• A. To create incisions
• B. To facilitate passage through the instrument's channel
• C. To provide stability during surgical procedures
• D. To illuminate the surgical field

Answer: (B)

The primary function of a luminal instrument is to facilitate passage through the instrument's channel, which is crucial in various surgical procedures, especially those involving cavities or tubular structures within the body, such as blood vessels or the gastrointestinal tract. These instruments are specifically designed to allow other tools or materials to move through them or to ensure clear access to the area being treated.

Luminal instruments are often utilized in situations where navigation through narrow or intricate pathways is necessary, allowing for the effective delivery of surgical instruments or other therapeutic devices. This characteristic is particularly important in minimally invasive surgeries, where access to internal sites without large incisions is required.

Understanding the role of luminal instruments involves recognizing their construction and purpose, which directly relates to how they help ensure the success of surgical interventions by enabling the smooth passage and operation of additional instruments needed during a procedure.