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

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.
Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
(© 2022 The Authors. World Journal of Otorhinolaryngology ‐ Head and Neck Surgery published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Chinese Medical Association.)