Superficial incisional SSI | Infection occurs within 30 days of surgery AND Involves only skin or subcutaneous tissue of the incision AND At least ONE of the following: Purulent drainage Positive microbial culture from the incision site At least one of the following symptoms: pain or tenderness, localized swelling, redness or heat Diagnosis of SSI is made by a veterinarian |
Deep incisional SSI | Infection occurs within 30 days of surgery or within 1 year if implant is in place AND Involves deep soft tissue (fascia, muscle etc.) of the incision AND At least ONE of the following: Purulent drainage from the deep incision Deep incision dehisces or is opened by the surgeon when the dog has at least one of the following symptoms UNLESS bacterial culture of the incision is negative: Fever Localized pain or tenderness An abscess or other evidence of infection in the deep soft tissues of the incision is found on examination, reoperation, histopathology or imaging |
Organ/Space SSI | Infection occurs within 30 days of surgery or within 1 year if implant is in place AND Involves any area other than the incision which was opened or manipulated during surgery AND At least ONE of the following: Purulent drainage Positive bacterial culture An abscess or other evidence of infection involving the organ/space found on examination or by histopathology or diagnostic imaging Diagnosis of SSI made by a veterinarian |