Which medical term describes the joining of two surfaces or structures?

The term that accurately describes the joining of two surfaces or structures is adhesion. In medical contexts, adhesion refers to the process in which tissue surfaces stick together, often as a result of injury, surgery, or inflammation. This can occur in various parts of the body, and while it may sometimes be a natural part of healing, it can also lead to complications if adhesions form inappropriately, causing restrictions or obstructions in organ movement. Understanding this term is essential in fields such as surgery and pathology, as it directly relates to patient outcomes and treatment considerations.

The other terms provided do not fit this definition. Separation refers to the act of moving apart or being divided. Infiltration generally describes the process where substances, such as fluids or cells, enter a tissue or an organ, often in an uncontrolled manner. Compression refers to the act of pressing or squeezing something, which does not imply any joining of surfaces.