At what stage of embalming should surgical drainage openings be closed?

• A. Before aspiration, after arterial embalming
• B. After aspiration, before cavity embalming
• C. During arterial embalming, after drainage
• D. Before injection, during aspiration

Answer: (B)

The closure of surgical drainage openings is appropriately done after aspiration, just before cavity embalming begins. After aspiration, which removes the gases and fluids from the body cavities, the openings can be closed to prevent any leakage and to create a sealed environment for the cavity embalming. This ensures that the chemicals used for cavity embalming are effectively retained within the cavities and can do their job of preservation without escaping.

Closing the drainage openings at this stage also helps maintain the overall aesthetics of the body after embalming, as it provides a smoother and more finished appearance. This sequence in the embalming process is important because it allows each step to function properly: aspiration clears out the cavities, which is critical before applying cavity fluid, and closing the openings helps secure the efficacy of that fluid applied later on.