Wound Healing Process, Phases of Wound Healing and Risk Factors: A Review (original) (raw)

Wound healing is a complex process in which the skin (or another organ) repairs itself after injury. Various cells and biological molecules work together in this process to repair the damaged tissue. The first step in wound healing is for the body to stop the bleeding. This is done by clotting factors in the blood coming into contact with damaged endothelial cells lining the blood vessels. Once bleeding has stopped, repair cells called fibroblasts migrate into the area to start synthesizing collagen fibers and other materials needed to rebuild the tissue. At the same time, new blood vessels begin to form, and inflammatory cells help clear away debris. As collagen is laid down and cross-linked, a temporary scaffold is formed that will eventually be replaced by permanent scar tissue. The rate of wound healing varies depending on many factors, including age, nutrition, immune status, and chronic health conditions.