Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

Wounds that have significant tissue loss and are left open typically heal by which method?

1. Healing by primary intention

2. Healing by secondary intention

3. Healing by delayed primary intention

4. Healing by tertiary intention

The correct answer is: Healing by secondary intention

Wounds with significant tissue loss that remain open typically heal by secondary intention. This healing process occurs when the wound edges are not approximated, meaning they cannot be brought together, and as a result, the healing relies on the body’s natural mechanisms. During secondary intention healing, the wound fills in with granulation tissue, which is a new connective tissue and microscopic blood vessels that form on the surface of the wound. Eventually, the granulation tissue matures and undergoes re-epithelialization as new skin cells grow over the area. This method of healing is characterized by a longer duration compared to primary intention, which involves the direct closure of wound edges with sutures or staples, and typically results in less scarring. It is also different from delayed primary intention, where the wound is initially left open to reduce the risk of infection before being closed later, and tertiary intention, which involves delayed closure of a wound due to factors such as infection or contamination. Understanding the process of secondary intention healing is crucial for physical therapy assistants, as it influences treatment strategies and patient care plans, including wound management and assessment of healing progress.