Which instrument is used to cut tissue and open a flap during surgery?

The instrument that is primarily used to cut tissue and open a flap during surgery is the scalpel. A scalpel is a surgical knife characterized by its sharp blade, which allows for precise incisions in various tissues. It is essential for making clean, accurate cuts that enable surgeons to access deeper structures and perform surgeries effectively.

In the context of oral surgery and other medical procedures, the scalpel often serves as the fundamental tool for making incisions, whether it be for opening a flap of gum tissue or for other surgical interventions. Its design is specifically meant for such tasks, making it indispensable in surgical settings.

In contrast, surgical scissors have a different function; they are primarily used for cutting sutures or other soft tissue but are not intended for making initial incisions. A hemostat is designed for grasping and holding tissues, controlling bleeding, or clamping blood vessels, and does not serve the function of cutting. The root tip pick is used specifically for retrieving root tips or debris from the socket in dental procedures but is not suitable for making incisions or flaps in tissue.