Certified Instrument Specialist (CIS) Practice Exam 2026 - Free CIS Practice Questions and Study Guide

In a medical context, the term 'ligate' specifically refers to the process of binding or attaching a structure, usually using a ligature (a type of string or wire). This term is commonly used in various surgical procedures where blood vessels or tissues need to be tied off to prevent bleeding or to secure tissues together for healing. For instance, when performing a surgery that involves removing a part of an organ, ligation is often performed to secure blood vessels that supply that organ to minimize blood loss.

The other terms presented in the choices represent different medical actions but do not accurately capture the meaning of 'ligate.' For example, dissection involves cutting through tissues, repairing skin refers to suturing or closing wounds, and cleaning a wound involves cleansing it to prevent infection. None of these actions encapsulate the specific technique of binding or attaching, which is central to the definition of 'ligate.' Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the unique surgical and medical significance of ligation in procedural contexts.