Which instrument is primarily used for holding soft tissues during surgical procedures?

The instrument primarily used for holding soft tissues during surgical procedures is reduction forceps. These forceps are designed to grasp and control soft tissues securely, allowing veterinarians to manipulate tissues effectively without causing damage. Their design includes features such as a locking mechanism and edges that are tailored to hold tissue firmly, which is essential during delicate surgical maneuvers.

In contrast, the other instruments serve distinctly different purposes. A bone rasp is utilized for smoothing and reshaping bone, which is not relevant for soft tissue handling. Callipers measure distances or diameters, and while they can provide important measurements in surgical planning, they do not play a role in holding tissues during procedures. Similarly, a wire twister is used to twist and secure wires, commonly in orthopedic settings, but it does not function as a tool for controlling or holding soft tissues. Thus, reduction forceps stand out as the appropriate choice for the specific task of holding soft tissues during surgery.