What is the purpose of a curette in medical procedures?

The purpose of a curette in medical procedures is primarily to remove tissue or foreign objects from a body cavity. Often used in surgical or gynecological procedures, a curette is a surgical instrument designed to scrape or suction tissue for examination or removal.

In contexts such as a D&C (dilatation and curettage), the curette helps in clearing the uterine lining. Its design, typically featuring a small, scoop-shaped head, facilitates precise scraping of tissues, making it highly effective for these purposes. This capability to remove unwanted material directly relates to the operational function expected from a curette, distinguishing it clearly from the roles of other instruments in medical practice, such as those used for anesthesia, stitching, or diagnosing infections, which serve different and specific functions.