What is a drill guide primarily used for?

A drill guide is primarily used for guiding drill placement during surgical procedures. This tool is essential for ensuring precision and accuracy when drilling into bone or other tissues. It helps to direct the drill in the correct position and angle, which is crucial for successful outcomes in surgeries, such as orthopedic procedures where exact placement is vital to avoid damaging surrounding structures.

In contrast, other options pertain to different purposes within surgical procedures. For instance, while fixing fractured bones is important, this involves the use of various types of fixation devices, not specifically a drill guide. Measuring the depth of cut typically requires a different instrument designed for depth assessment. Lastly, retracting tissues is a function fulfilled by retractors, which are meant to hold back body structures to provide better visibility and access to the surgical site, distinct from the role of a drill guide.