Veterinary Technician Practice Exam

What type of wound healing involves granulation tissue filling the defect?

1. First intention

2. Second intention

3. Tertiary intention

4. Direct closure

The correct answer is: Second intention

Wound healing by second intention is characterized by the formation of granulation tissue, which is essential for filling in the wound defect. This process often occurs when the edges of the wound are not approximated, allowing the body to heal through natural mechanisms. In this type of healing, granulation tissue forms as part of the inflammatory response, providing a scaffold for new tissue. Granulation tissue is rich in blood vessels, which is crucial for delivering nutrients and oxygen to the healing area. Additionally, it contains fibroblasts that synthesize collagen, promoting tissue strength and structure as the healing progresses. In contrast, first intention healing typically involves the direct closure of a clean, surgical wound, leading to minimal granulation tissue formation. Tertiary intention healing refers to a delayed closure of a wound, where granulation tissue may be present but is not the primary focus of the healing process at the outset. Direct closure involves surgical techniques to bring wound edges together, and while some granulation tissue might be formed, it isn't the predominant feature. Hence, second intention healing is the process that prominently features granulation tissue in response to wound healing.