adverse event preceded by procedural complication AE surgery AE a procedure complication AE that occurs after a surgery. surgery adverse event The key difference between a surgery and a procedure is the need for an incision. Making an incision, or cutting into the skin to gain access to the body’s deeper tissues or organs, is a defining characteristic of surgery. Technically speaking, a surgery is a specific type of procedure. A procedure is a broad general term that refers to any series of pre-defined steps that should be followed to achieve a desired result. Therefore, a “surgical procedure” is synonymous with a “surgery.” See more: http://www.wisegeekhealth.com/what-is-the-difference-between-a-surgery-and-a-procedure.htm. YH surgical procedure AE surgery