What term describes delayed primary healing where two granulated tissues are approximated?

The term that describes delayed primary healing, where two granulated tissues are approximated, is known as third intention healing, also referred to as delayed primary closure. This process occurs when a wound is initially left open to allow for the granulation tissue to form, which can then be approximated later after sufficient healing and reduction of infection risk.

In situations where there’s a considerable delay in wound closure, perhaps due to contamination or the need for observation, granulation tissue forms in the wound bed. Once this tissue develops adequately, the wound can be approximated surgically, facilitating faster healing and reduced scarring when compared to other methods like secondary intention, where the wound is left to heal naturally without closure.

Primary intention healing involves the direct closure of a clean, uninfected wound with sutures, staples, or adhesive, suggesting an immediate closing. Secondary intention healing occurs when a wound is left open and heals naturally through the formation of granulation tissue, which may take longer and can result in a larger scar. Quaternary intention healing is not a standard term in surgical wound healing, reinforcing that the concept best fitting delayed primary healing is third intention.