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Review
. 2022 Apr 18;8(2):139-144.
doi: 10.1002/wjo2.63. eCollection 2022 Jun.

Surgical wound classification in otolaryngology: A state-of-the-art review

Jeffrey D Bernstein  1 , David J Bracken  1 , Shira R Abeles  2 , Ryan K Orosco  1   3 , Philip A Weissbrod  1
Affiliations
Review

Surgical wound classification in otolaryngology: A state-of-the-art review

Jeffrey D Bernstein et al. World J Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. .

Abstract

Objective: To describe the issues related to the assignment of surgical wound classification as it pertains to Otolaryngology-Head & Neck surgery, and to present a simple framework by which providers can assign wound classification.

Data sources: Literature review.

Conclusion: Surgical wound classification in its current state is limited in its utility. It has recently been disregarded by major risk assessment models, likely due to inaccurate and inconsistent reporting by providers and operative staff. However, if data accuracy is improved, this metric may be useful to inform the risk of surgical site infection. In an era of quality-driven care and reimbursement, surgical wound classification may become an equally important indicator of quality.

Keywords: ENT; OHNS; health care spending; otolaryngology; quality improvement; reimbursement; surgical site infection; wound classification.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Surgical wound classification guideline for Otolaryngology—Head & Neck Surgery
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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