COMPLICATIONS OF WOUND HEALING

Introduction:  Wound healing is a gradual process and in a normal human being, the process will take 72 hours to years depending on the competence of the host immunity, and extent of damage caused.  At the hallmark, the healed wound will leave a scar tissue but sometimes even the scar disappears with time.  In some cases however, the process of wound healing may not be as productive as expected and the following complications will rise.

Excessive Scar Formation: Excessive granulation is characterized by the formation of a mass of granulation tissue protruding from the wound and prevents re-epithelialization.  Such excesses are commonly refer red to as "proud flesh".

Keloid Formation: Keloid formation also refers to an aberration of wound healing resulting in the formation of large bulging scars, but it differs from excessive scar in that it is caused by excessive collagenization of the wound and not excessive formation of granulation tissue, this phenomenon is a common problem in darker people.

Wound Rupture: Failure of fusion of the two ends of the wound, or nonunion of bone fracture.

Epidermoid Cyst: Implantation of epidermal cells, giving rise to keratin  filled cyst known as epidermoid cyst.

Infection: Bacterial infection and pus discharge may take place if a wound is contaminated. 

Weak Scars Formation: Failure to close the wound.  [WOUND HEALING BY SECONDARY REUNION]  [INFLAMATION]  REFERENCES