Final answer:
Cairn (Dandy) clamps are the correct choice for retracting the dura mater during a craniotomy. They are used to provide a clear operative field by holding the tough dura layer out of the way, ensuring the surgeon can work without obstructions. Therefore, the correct option is B
Step-by-step explanation:
During a craniotomy, when the neurosurgeon asks for the clamps used to retract the dura mater and hold it out of the way, you would hand him/her Cairn (Dandy) clamps. These specialized clamps are designed to securely hold the dura, which is the outermost layer of the meninges, away from the brain. This allows the surgeon to have a clear operative field. The dura mater has several infoldings that fit into large crevasses of the brain, and these clamps help manage this tough membrane during surgical procedures. Cairn clamps are preferred because they are specifically made for gentle yet firm retraction of the dura without causing damage.
There are also other types of clamps and retractors used during neurological surgeries, but the Cairn (Dandy) clamps are the appropriate choice for retraction of the dura. As part of the preparation for any neurosurgical procedure, understanding the function and application of neurosurgical instruments is crucial for both the surgical team and for those assisting in the procedure.