PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

Which stage of wound healing occurs first, involving recruitment of inflammatory cells?

1. Epithialization

2. Neovascularization

3. Inflammatory

4. Tissue remodeling

The correct answer is: Inflammatory

The stage of wound healing that occurs first is the inflammatory phase. This phase is crucial because it involves the immediate body's response to injury, characterized by the recruitment of various inflammatory cells to the site of the wound. When a wound occurs, the body initiates hemostasis to control bleeding and establish a protective barrier. Following this, inflammatory cells such as neutrophils and macrophages are recruited to the area to help clean the wound of debris, bacteria, and dead tissue. These cells not only play a pivotal role in removing harmful pathogens but also release signaling molecules that recruit additional immune cells to maintain the inflammatory response. This process sets the stage for the subsequent phases of healing and is essential for preventing infection and promoting a conducive environment for tissue repair. Epithelialization, neovascularization, and tissue remodeling are subsequent phases that occur after the inflammatory phase has effectively started the healing process. Each of these later stages relies on the proper initiation of the inflammatory phase to ensure successful recovery.