What does secondary intention refer to in wound healing?

Secondary intention in wound healing refers to the process where a wound heals from the bottom upward, typically creating granulation tissue before the surface can be closed. This healing method is often seen in larger wounds or those that have a significant tissue loss, where the edges of the wound cannot be brought together easily. Instead of healing through direct closure, the body forms new tissue and fills the wound from the base as it gradually covers and closes from the edges.

This process may take longer and is usually accompanied by more scarring compared to other types of wound healing, such as primary intention, where the wound edges are approximated and closed quickly. Understanding secondary intention is important for managing wound care and anticipating the healing timeline for patients.