Wound Healing

Question 0

Granulation formation/proliferation or fibroblastic phase

Answer 0

Begins 2-3 days after injury
Continues for several weeks

Granulation buds & epithelialization

Wound contraction
Granulation tissue filling the defect
Epithelial cells migrating from wound margins

Fibroblasts, myofibroblasts, & epithelial cells

Fibroblasts synthesize collagen, glycosaminoglycans, & elastin
Collagen synthesis is critical for the integrity of the wound

Reepithelialization occurs as cells migrate from the wound margin to provide protective barrier preventing fluid & electrolyte loss & reducing chances of infection

Question 1

Inflammatory phase

Answer 1

Begins at time of injury
Ends in 3-5 days

Redness, edema, warmth, pain, decreased ROM

Neutrophils & macrophages

Question 2

Maturation, repair, & matrix formation

Answer 2

Begins 2-4 weeks after injury
Continues until wound is healed

Characterized by weaker collagen being replaced with stronger collagen. Alignment of collagen is dependent on the forces imposed

Healing considered complete when epithelium covers the surface. (Remodeling of the scar tissue can take up to 2 years)

Normal act healing:
6-12 weeks: bright pink scar
12-15 weeks: changes to soft lavender, then faintly pink
Mature scar will be soft, white, & flat