At which phase of wound healing does the inflammatory response begin?

The inflammatory phase is the initial stage of wound healing and marks the body's immediate response to injury. This phase begins when the tissue sustains damage, triggering a series of biological reactions aimed at preventing infection and promoting healing.

During this phase, the body activates various inflammatory mediators such as cytokines and growth factors, which help to control bleeding and initiate the healing process. Blood vessels in the area dilate, leading to increased blood flow and the characteristic redness and warmth associated with inflammation. White blood cells, particularly neutrophils and later macrophages, migrate to the injury site to combat infection and begin the process of tissue repair.

The subsequent phases—proliferation and remodeling—build upon the foundation laid during the inflammatory phase. In the proliferation phase, the focus shifts to tissue formation and closure of the wound, while the remodeling phase involves strengthening and restructuring the scar tissue. Thus, the inflammatory phase is essential as it sets the stage for the healing processes that follow.