How to Perform Surgical Procedures in a Lab While Wearing a Lab Choly

When most people think of surgery, they imagine bright operating rooms, surgeons in full scrubs, and high-stakes moments. But in research labs and academic settings, many of us carry out surgical-style procedures for study, practice, or experiments. Whether you're working on small animals, biological models, or even plant tissues, lab-based surgeries require precision, cleanliness, and discipline. And yes, your lab choly becomes part of that routine. So how do you actually go about it? Here’s a simplified guide based on common lab procedures.

4/23/20251 min read

1. Preparation Is Everything

Before you even touch a scalpel, clean your workspace. Wipe down surfaces with 70% ethanol or another sterilizer. Make sure your tools are autoclaved or sterilized properly. Wash your hands and wear gloves. Your lab choly should be clean, buttoned up, and comfortable—not flapping around.

2. Gather and Lay Out Tools

Typical surgical tools include:

Scalpel
Forceps
Scissors
Needle holder
Gauze pads
Sutures or clips

Lay everything out neatly on a sterile surface. Keep backup tools nearby, just in case.

3. Anesthetize (If Working with Animals)

For ethical reasons, animals must be sedated or fully anesthetized before any procedure. Use the appropriate anesthesia under supervision or approved protocol. Monitor the animal’s breathing and pulse if required.

4. Perform the Procedure with Care

Once everything’s ready, begin slowly. Make clean incisions, avoid damaging surrounding areas, and follow the plan. The key in lab procedures is control and documentation—you're not just performing surgery; you’re learning or observing.

Take notes as you go. If you're doing a dissection or implant experiment, label everything and record the process step-by-step.

5. Closing the Incision

Depending on the model, use sutures, glue, or clips to close the wound. Be gentle. Check for bleeding, disinfect the area, and ensure the subject (if alive) is recovering properly.

6. Clean Up and Dispose Properly

After the procedure, disinfect tools, clean the area, and dispose of biological waste responsibly. Always follow your lab's safety and biohazard guidelines. Your lab choly can be washed or changed, especially if exposed to fluids.

Final Thoughts

Wearing a lab choly is more than tradition—it’s protection, professionalism, and part of a safe lab culture. Whether you’re a student, a researcher, or someone just starting to explore surgical techniques in a lab setting, always prioritize safety, ethics, and accuracy.

With the right tools, mindset, and attire, even a humble lab choly can become part of a life-changing experiment.