What does the term "dehiscence" refer to in a surgical context?

In a surgical context, the term "dehiscence" specifically refers to the separation of layers, typically concerning a surgical wound. This condition can occur when the edges of a surgical incision or a wound fail to heal properly and result in a breakdown of the tissue layers that were previously sewn or stapled together. This phenomenon can lead to complications, including the potential for infection or delayed healing, making understanding and recognizing dehiscence critical for surgical teams.

The other options describe related but distinct concepts. The connection of tissue layers pertains to the process of suturing and healing but does not define dehiscence. The closure of a surgical site describes what should happen post-surgery, in contrast to the undesirable state of dehiscence. The process of wound healing refers to the body's natural response to repairing tissue and is a broader term that encompasses both successful healing and potential complications like dehiscence. Thus, "separation of layers" aptly captures the essence of what dehiscence entails in surgical scenarios.