What does "stylet" mean?

Stylet: (Surg.) (a) An instrument for examining wounds and fistulas, and for passing setons, and the like; a probe, -- called also specillum. (b) A stiff wire, inserted in catheters or other tubular instruments to maintain their shape and prevent clogging.

Additional senses

  1. 2.(Zoöl.) Any small, more or less rigid, bristlelike organ; as, the caudal stylets of certain insects; the ventral stylets of certain Infusoria.

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