What is the primary reason for using drapes in surgery?

Drapes are essential in surgery primarily to create and maintain a sterile field around the surgical site. This ensures that the area where the surgical procedure is conducted is free from microorganisms, significantly reducing the risk of postoperative infections. By using sterile drapes, the surgical team can isolate the operative area from the surrounding environment, which is vital for patient safety and the success of the surgery.

While providing comfort to the patient, holding surgical instruments, or decorating the operating room may have their respective roles, they do not capture the primary focus of drapes in a surgical scenario. The sterile field is crucial for infection control, making it the primary reason for the use of drapes during surgical procedures.