Which statement best describes primary versus secondary intention healing?

Which statement best describes primary versus secondary intention healing?

• A. Wound edges are approximated with sutures or staples, resulting in minimal tissue loss and faster healing.
• B. Wound edges left open to drain and heal by granulation.
• C. Wounds heal by secondary intention with more extensive scar tissue.
• D. Wounds cannot heal without grafts.

Answer: (A)

Understanding primary versus secondary intention healing centers on whether wound edges are brought together or left to heal on their own. Primary intention occurs when wound edges are approximated with sutures, staples, or adhesive, resulting in minimal tissue loss and faster healing with less scarring. This approach reduces the amount of granulation tissue needed and lowers infection risk because the wound is closed promptly. Secondary intention, in contrast, happens when edges are not closed and the wound heals from the bottom up through granulation tissue, contraction, and epithelialization, which takes longer and usually leaves more scar tissue. The statement describing edges being brought together and healing quickly fits primary intention best, while the other options describe scenarios like leaving wounds open for drainage (secondary), or are incorrect notions about healing requiring grafts.

Understanding primary versus secondary intention healing centers on whether wound edges are brought together or left to heal on their own. Primary intention occurs when wound edges are approximated with sutures, staples, or adhesive, resulting in minimal tissue loss and faster healing with less scarring. This approach reduces the amount of granulation tissue needed and lowers infection risk because the wound is closed promptly. Secondary intention, in contrast, happens when edges are not closed and the wound heals from the bottom up through granulation tissue, contraction, and epithelialization, which takes longer and usually leaves more scar tissue. The statement describing edges being brought together and healing quickly fits primary intention best, while the other options describe scenarios like leaving wounds open for drainage (secondary), or are incorrect notions about healing requiring grafts.