Which of the following is NOT a phase of wound healing?

• A. Hemostasis
• B. Inflammation
• C. Proliferation
• D. Necrosis

Answer: (D)

Wound healing is a complex biological process typically consisting of several specific phases: hemostasis, inflammation, and proliferation. Each of these phases plays a critical role in the repair and regeneration of tissue following injury.

Hemostasis is the initial phase that occurs immediately after injury and involves the formation of a clot to stop bleeding, which also provides a temporary matrix for incoming cells. Following this, the inflammation phase helps to clean the wound by removing debris and pathogens, and it involves the recruitment of immune cells to the site of injury. The proliferation phase then focuses on tissue formation and healing, encompassing processes such as granulation tissue formation, angiogenesis, and re-epithelialization.

Necrosis, on the other hand, refers to the process of cell death that occurs in response to injury or disease. It is not a phase of wound healing but rather a pathological process that can complicate or inhibit healing. When tissues undergo necrosis, it can lead to inflammation and potentially prolong the healing process instead of facilitating it. Thus, necrosis does not fit within the established framework of wound healing phases, making it the correct answer.