What type of drape is commonly used for sterile fields in surgery?

A fenestrated drape is specifically designed for surgical procedures that require access to a particular area of the patient's body while keeping the surrounding area sterile. This type of drape features an aperture, or "window," that allows the surgical team to access the incision site without compromising the sterility of the surrounding area. It is commonly used in various surgical specialties, particularly during procedures such as laparoscopic surgeries, where visibility and sterility in a confined space are essential.

Other drape types, such as sterile drapes, provide a sterile barrier but do not typically have the openings necessary for direct access to surgical sites. Non-woven drapes are often used for draping but may not provide the same structural integrity or sterility assurance as fenestrated drapes in surgical scenarios. Plastic drapes, while effective at creating barriers against contamination, might not always offer the desired level of breathability and absorbency required during surgery. Thus, the fenestrated drape is the preferred choice when a sterile field with specific access points is necessary.