Secondary intention wound healing is described as which of the following?

• A. Wounds closed immediately with sutures
• B. Wounds created with aseptic technique and closed promptly
• C. Wounds with tissue loss left open to heal from inside out
• D. Wounds require debridement first

Answer: (C)

Secondary intention healing happens when a wound has tissue loss and is left open rather than being closed with sutures. Without edge approximation, healing occurs from the base of the wound upward through granulation tissue, then contraction, and finally resurfacing by epithelialization. This process takes longer and often results in a larger scar, especially in wounds that are contaminated or can't be closed under tension.

That’s why the description describing wounds with tissue loss left open to heal from inside out fits best. Closing wounds immediately with sutures or closing promptly after aseptic prep describes primary closure, not secondary. Debridement may be part of wound care but doesn’t define secondary healing.