What is the purpose of a smoke evacuator during electrosurgical procedures?

• A. To remove surgical smoke and reduce exposure to potentially harmful particulates and chemicals.
• B. To cool the surgical field.
• C. To deliver moisture to the wound.
• D. To calibrate the electrosurgical unit.

Answer: (A)

During electrosurgery, energy vaporizes tissue and creates a plume that contains particulates, volatile chemicals, and potentially infectious material. A smoke evacuator captures this plume at the source with high-flow suction and filtration, reducing staff exposure to harmful substances and improving visibility in the surgical field. It’s not about cooling the area, delivering moisture, or calibrating the electrosurgical unit—these duties are handled by other equipment and procedures. So the main purpose is to remove surgical smoke and minimize exposure to harmful particulates and chemicals.