The xiphoid process is at the lower end of the sternum, and for most people, it is cartilage.
With cartilage, there's no need for a power saw; surgical scissors will suffice. In many tasks, it's a common strategy to tackle the areas of least resistance first and save the tougher parts for last. This is also true in medical procedures. Clearing the xiphoid process before sawing the sternum serves as an important breakthrough point. Just like before, the most crucial task is to clean the things attached around the bone.
This time, to assist the Chief Surgeon, the First Assistant does not use the Separation Clamp. Instead, they use forceps to clamp the small shield-like xiphoid process and clean out the heap of "debris" behind it. It's akin to dismantling a mechanical arm—without cutting the wires and such connecting the arm, it's not possible.
