SurgicalTechPrep Blog
Study smarter. Pass the CST exam.
Study guides, procedure breakdowns, and exam strategy to help you pass the NBSTSA CST exam on your first attempt.
Spinal Column Anatomy for Fusion and Laminectomy Procedures
A focused review of vertebral anatomy relevant to spinal fusion and laminectomy, including the vertebral canal, pedicles, and neural foramina.
February 1, 2026
Brachial Plexus Anatomy for Shoulder and Upper Extremity Surgery
A focused anatomy review of the brachial plexus and its relevance to shoulder surgery, regional anesthesia blocks, and nerve injury risk.
January 24, 2026
Diaphragm Anatomy and Hiatal Hernia Repair: A Surgical Tech's Review
A focused anatomy review of the diaphragm and esophageal hiatus relevant to hiatal hernia repair and antireflux surgery.
January 16, 2026
Cranial Nerve Anatomy for ENT and Neurosurgical Cases: A CST Review
A focused review of the cranial nerves most relevant to ENT and neurosurgical procedures and why surgical techs need to recognize them.
January 8, 2026
Vascular Anatomy for Aortic Aneurysm Repair: A CST Exam Review
A focused anatomy review of the abdominal aorta and its major branches relevant to open and endovascular aneurysm repair.
December 31, 2025
Pancreatic Anatomy for the Whipple Procedure: A Surgical Tech's Review
A focused anatomy review of the pancreas, duodenum, and surrounding structures relevant to pancreaticoduodenectomy.
December 23, 2025
Vascular Anatomy of the Extremities: A CST Exam Review
A review of major arterial and venous anatomy in the upper and lower extremities relevant to vascular surgery on the CST exam.
November 5, 2025
Ophthalmic Anatomy for Eye Surgery: A CST Exam Review
A review of eye anatomy structures relevant to cataract surgery and other ophthalmic procedures on the CST exam.
November 4, 2025
Ear, Nose, and Throat Anatomy for ENT Procedures: A CST Exam Review
A review of ENT anatomy structures relevant to tonsillectomy, sinus surgery, and other otolaryngology procedures.
November 3, 2025
Cranial Anatomy Landmarks for Neurosurgery: A CST Exam Review
A review of cranial bone landmarks and meningeal layers relevant to craniotomy and other neurosurgical procedures.
November 2, 2025
Male Reproductive Anatomy for Urologic Surgery: A CST Exam Review
A review of male reproductive anatomy relevant to prostatectomy, vasectomy, and other urologic surgical procedures.
November 1, 2025
Female Reproductive Anatomy for Gynecologic Surgery: A CST Exam Review
A review of female reproductive anatomy structures relevant to hysterectomy, oophorectomy, and other gynecologic procedures.
October 31, 2025