Core SSI Definitions
Five tissue-layer definitions, depth-ordered. Each page renders through one shared template — consensus, clinical interpretation, diagnostic criteria, gray zones, misclassification scenarios, and system connections.
The SSI Classification System
Click any band to open its definition. The categories are depth-ordered and anatomical, not arbitrary — Superficial through Organ/Bone/Space, with Implant-Associated reported separately because its biology is distinct.
Surgical Site Infection
The parent definition — what counts as an SSI, and why time does not exclude it.
- 1
Superficial Incisional SSI
Infection confined to skin / mucous membrane and subcutaneous tissue of the incision.
- 2
Deep Incisional SSI
Infection involving the deep soft tissue of the incision — fascia and muscle.
- 3
Organ / Bone / Space SSI
Infection of anatomy deeper than fascia/muscle that was opened or manipulated.
- 4
Implant-Associated Infection
Infection of an implant placed at surgery — biofilm-driven and reported separately.
Surgical site infection definitions consensus: a first step toward improving prevention in veterinary medicine.
Verwilghen DR, Pelosi A, Abbas M, et al. — American Journal of Veterinary Research, 2026
DOI: 10.2460/ajvr.25.03.0099 · Open Access — CC BY-NC
Every definition, criterion, surveillance term, and wound class on these pages derives from this expert consensus. Consensus text on each page paraphrases the paper; clinical interpretation, gray zones, and misclassification scenarios are VETSSI editorial.