Which instrument is classified as a surgical curette?

The Kirkland curette is classified as a surgical curette due to its specific design and function. Curettes are instruments used in various surgical procedures to scrape or remove tissue, typically in a dental or periodontal context. The Kirkland curette features a curved, spoon-shaped tip that allows for efficient removal of soft tissue and debris from periodontal pockets. This design is particularly effective in debriding and shaping the periodontal sulcus during surgical procedures.

Other instruments listed in the question serve different purposes: the ball scaler is used for scaling teeth, Goldman-Fox scissors are utilized for cutting tissue, and DeBakey forceps are designed for grasping and holding delicate tissues during surgical procedures. Thus, their functionalities do not align with the specific role of a curette in the surgical context, reinforcing why the Kirkland curette stands out as the proper classification in this scenario.