Which surgical instrument is primarily used for dissecting and grasping tissue?

The instrument primarily used for dissecting and grasping tissue is forceps. Forceps are designed to facilitate the handling and manipulation of various types of tissue during surgical procedures. They come in various forms, including tissue forceps and vascular forceps, allowing surgical personnel to grasp, stabilize, or hold tissue securely.

Forceps can be used in delicate or intricate cases where precision is necessary, providing the surgeon or technologist with a reliable grip on the tissue without crushing or damaging it. This functionality is crucial in ensuring that the surgical field remains clear and that tissues can be dissected accurately and safely during procedures.

The other instruments serve different purposes: for instance, hemostats are primarily used for clamping blood vessels and controlling bleeding, scalpels are primarily used for making incisions, and scissors are typically employed for cutting. Hence, forceps are the most appropriate choice for the task of dissecting and grasping tissue effectively.