What is a significant advantage of using cellulose sponges over cotton swabs?

Cellulose sponges provide a significant advantage over cotton swabs primarily because they do not shed cotton fibers and possess greater absorbency. This quality is crucial in surgical settings, particularly in ophthalmic procedures, where the presence of stray fibers can lead to complications, particularly in the delicate environment of the eye. The ability to absorb more fluid than cotton swabs makes cellulose sponges particularly effective for managing bleeding or excess fluids during surgery, ensuring a clearer field for the surgeon and reducing the risk of infection or irritation that could arise from residual fibers.

The other factors, like availability or cost, while they may play a role in material selection, do not outweigh the practical benefits that cellulose sponges provide in terms of operational efficiency and safety in a surgical environment. The sterilization ease can also vary based on specific product designs, but the unique properties of cellulose sponges in maintaining a clear and clean surgical field is a definitive advantage over cotton swabs.