During which phase of tissue healing does new tissue form?

• A. Proliferative phase (new tissue formation)
• B. Inflammatory phase
• C. Remodeling phase
• D. Maturation phase

Answer: (A)

New tissue formation happens in the proliferative phase. After the initial cleanup and defense in the inflammatory phase, fibroblasts migrate into the wound and start laying down collagen and other extracellular matrix, creating granulation tissue. Angiogenesis brings fresh blood supply, and epithelial cells begin to cover and seal the wound. This combination of new matrix, new vessels, and epithelialization is what constitutes tissue formation. In contrast, the inflammatory phase focuses on debris removal and defense, while remodeling and maturation later reorganize and strengthen the tissue rather than continually forming new tissue.