Which surgical tool is specifically designed to smooth rough edges of bone?

The bone file is a specialized surgical tool specifically designed for smoothing rough edges of bone. Its unique structure features a coarse surface that is effective for filing down and refining bone edges, ensuring that they are smooth and free from sharp projections. This is particularly important in orthopedic procedures where bone surfaces need to be prepared for joint alignment or other interactions with soft tissues, as rough edges can lead to irritation or complications post-surgery.

In contrast, a rongeur is primarily used for cutting and grasping bone or tissue, and while it may shape bone somewhat, it does not provide the fine smoothing necessary that a bone file offers. A Hoke chisel is typically used to cut or shape bone rather than smooth it, allowing for more precise incisions or adjustments. A scalpel, primarily a cutting instrument, is focused on making incisions in soft tissues rather than treating bone surfaces. Thus, the bone file is clearly the tool of choice for the purpose of smoothing bone.