What phase of wound healing involves the formation of new cells around damaged tissue?

The phase of wound healing that involves the formation of new cells around damaged tissue is known as the proliferative phase. During this stage, the body works to build new tissue and close the wound. This process includes the formation of granulation tissue, which is rich in collagen and serves as a scaffold for new cell development. Additionally, angiogenesis occurs, where new blood vessels form to supply nutrients and oxygen to the healing tissue. This stage is crucial for restoring the integrity of the skin and underlying tissues following an injury, as it sets the foundation for complete recovery.

In contrast to other phases, such as the inflammatory phase—which primarily focuses on cleaning the wound of debris and pathogens— and the maturation phase, which is about tissue remodeling and strengthening, the proliferative phase is distinctly characterized by active tissue regeneration. The exudative phase, though related to the initial fluid and cellular responses post-injury, does not specifically pertain to the creation of new cells. Thus, the proliferative phase stands out as the critical time for new cell formation within the healing process.