Which instrument is used to dilate openings or passages during procedures?

Which instrument is used to dilate openings or passages during procedures?

• A. Speculum
• B. Probe
• C. Dilator
• D. Retractor

Answer: (C)

dilator A dilator is the instrument designed to widen openings or passages gradually and safely. It comes in a range of sizes so a clinician can progressively increase the diameter of a canal or tract to allow instruments or treatment to pass without tearing tissue. This is different from a speculum, which simply holds an opening open for visualization, a probe, which is used to explore or locate structures, or a retractor, which holds back tissue to improve access without widening the passage. Using a dilator ensures controlled, gentle expansion when access is needed.

dilator

A dilator is the instrument designed to widen openings or passages gradually and safely. It comes in a range of sizes so a clinician can progressively increase the diameter of a canal or tract to allow instruments or treatment to pass without tearing tissue. This is different from a speculum, which simply holds an opening open for visualization, a probe, which is used to explore or locate structures, or a retractor, which holds back tissue to improve access without widening the passage. Using a dilator ensures controlled, gentle expansion when access is needed.