In the context of fracture healing, how long does the inflammatory response stage last?

The inflammatory response stage of fracture healing is characterized by a series of biological processes that occur immediately after a fracture. This stage typically lasts up to 3 days. During this time, the body responds to the injury by initiating a cascade of events that involves blood clot formation, the infiltration of inflammatory cells, and the release of cytokines and growth factors.

The inflammatory response serves critical functions, including the prevention of infection, the removal of dead tissue, and the activation of the healing process. As the inflammatory phase progresses, it sets the stage for the subsequent stages of healing, such as the reparative stage, where new tissue begins to form. Recognizing the timeline of the inflammatory response is essential for understanding the overall healing process and making informed decisions regarding patient care and rehabilitation strategies for those with fractures.