🏥 Surgical Site

The surgical site refers to the specific anatomical location on the patient's body where a surgical incision or procedure is performed.

• Skin and subcutaneous tissue at the incision area
• Deep soft tissue layers, including fascia and muscle
• Organs or anatomical structures manipulated or exposed during surgery

According to CDC guidelines, surgical sites are classified when monitoring for surgical site infections (SSIs):

• Superficial incisional SSI → involves skin/subcutaneous tissue
• Deep incisional SSI → involves deeper soft tissues (fascia, muscle)
• Organ/space SSI → involves any organ or cavity manipulated during surgery

In neurosurgical procedures, the surgical site may include:

• Scalp and skull (craniotomy/craniectomy)
• Dura mater
• Brain, spinal cord or nerve roots
• Spinal elements (lamina, disc, vertebrae)

Proper identification, antisepsis, and isolation of the surgical site is critical to:

• Prevent infections
• Ensure adequate exposure
• Improve postoperative outcomes

Surgical Site Infection