During a laparoscopic appendectomy, which type of stapler should the surgical technologist have ready on the back table for removing the appendix?

• A. Intraluminal
• B. Linear
• C. Skin
• D. Purse-string

Answer: (B)

In a laparoscopic appendectomy, a linear stapler is the most appropriate choice for removing the appendix. This type of stapler is designed to create multiple staggered rows of staples in a straight line. It can effectively cut and staple the tissue simultaneously, which is particularly advantageous in laparoscopic procedures where precision and minimal invasiveness are paramount.

The linear stapler allows for proper resection of the appendix while providing hemostasis, which helps to minimize bleeding during and after the procedure. Its design is particularly suited for applications in which tissue needs to be transected and sealed efficiently.

Other stapler types mentioned may have specific uses but are not ideal for this context. For example, intraluminal staplers are designed for use within a lumen, typically in gastrointestinal surgeries, which doesn’t apply here. Skin staplers are utilized for closing skin incisions, while purse-string staplers are mainly used to create a circumferential stitch in a circular pattern, often used in closure strategies of structures like the bladder. Each of these options does not fit the needs of an appendectomy procedure as effectively as a linear stapler would.