What is the primary purpose of surgical ligatures during a procedure?

The primary purpose of surgical ligatures during a procedure is to occlude blood vessels. Ligatures are used to tie off blood vessels to prevent hemorrhage and ensure that blood loss is minimized during surgery. This is crucial for maintaining a clear surgical field and preventing complications related to excessive bleeding, which can affect patient stability and recovery.

While ligatures can indirectly contribute to cosmetic appearance and support tissue healing by controlling bleeding and allowing for more precise tissue handling, their main function is to safely manage blood flow during the surgical procedure. Additionally, securing instruments in place is typically managed through different means, such as clamps or holders, rather than ligatures. Thus, the essence of ligature use lies in their role in vascular control during surgical interventions.