Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) Practice Exam

What is the correct order of the phases of fracture healing?

1. Repair, inflammation, remodeling

2. Remodeling, inflammation, repair

3. Inflammation, repair, remodeling

4. Inflammation, remodeling, repair

The correct answer is: Inflammation, repair, remodeling

The correct order of the phases of fracture healing is inflammation, repair, and remodeling. During the inflammation phase, which occurs immediately after the fracture, the body responds to the injury by creating a hematoma at the fracture site, which helps stabilize the fracture and sets the stage for healing. This phase is also characterized by the release of various biochemical signals, which attract inflammatory cells to clean up debris and prevent infection. Following the inflammation phase is the repair phase, where a soft callus forms around the fracture site, eventually transforming into a hard callus as new bone tissue is created. This process involves endochondral ossification, where the body lays down cartilage that is gradually replaced by bone, allowing for increased stability of the fracture. Finally, the remodeling phase occurs over a longer period, where the newly formed bone is reshaped and strengthened according to the mechanical loads placed upon it. During this phase, excess bone is resorbed, and the structure of the bone is refined to restore its original shape and strength. Understanding these phases is crucial for effective clinical management of fractures and rehabilitation, as each phase requires specific interventions to promote optimal healing and recovery.