Phase four of wound repair is characterized by which process?

• A. Hemostasis
• B. Inflammation
• C. Proliferation
• D. Maturation/Remodeling

Answer: (D)

Phase four, maturation and remodeling, centers on converting the new tissue into a stronger, more organized scar. During this phase, the collagen laid down in earlier stages is reorganized and hardened. Type III collagen is gradually replaced by stronger type I collagen, and fibers realign along lines of mechanical stress, increasing the wound’s tensile strength over time. Vascularity diminishes as the edema resolves and inflammatory cells decline, while fibroblast activity tapers off. This remodeling can continue for weeks to months, with the wound reaching up to about 80% of its original strength, though never fully identical to uninjured skin.