Which instrument is used to remove debris or granulation tissue from a surgical site?

The surgical curette is specifically designed for the purpose of scraping and removing debris or granulation tissue from surgical sites. Its curved, spoon-like shape allows it to effectively scoop out soft tissue or unwanted material while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues. This tool is commonly utilized in various dental and surgical procedures, especially when cleaning a site after tooth extraction or in periodontal surgeries where granulation tissue may develop.

In contrast, rongeur forceps are primarily used for cutting and removing bone, rather than for cleaning soft tissues. A periodontal probe is designed to measure pocket depths and assess periodontal health, making it unsuitable for debris removal. The periosteal elevator is typically used to lift the periosteum away from the bone, assisting in the separation of tissues during procedures, but it does not effectively remove granulation tissue or debris. Thus, the surgical curette stands out as the most appropriate instrument for cleaning and removing unwanted tissue at a surgical site.