AEMCA Practice Exam

What are the main characteristics of the fibrocartilage stage in bone healing?

1. Formation of spongy bone and blood vessels

2. Formation of fibrocartilage and new blood vessels

3. Replacement of bone with cartilage

4. Strengthening of old bone

The correct answer is: Formation of fibrocartilage and new blood vessels

The fibrocartilage stage, also known as the soft callus formation stage, is a crucial part of the bone healing process. During this phase, there is significant formation of fibrocartilage and the development of new blood vessels to aid in healing. Fibrocartilage provides a temporary matrix that bridges the gap between the fractured bone ends, allowing for initial stability and support, which is essential for the next stages of healing. The presence of new blood vessels is vital as it enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the area, facilitating cellular activities that are critical for repair. The combination of fibrocartilage formation and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) helps set the foundation for the eventual transition to hard bone through subsequent phases of healing. Understanding this characteristic is important for recognizing how soft tissue contributions play a role in bone repair. In contrast, other options represent different stages or processes in the overall healing journey. For instance, spongy bone formation occurs in the later stages, and the strengthening of old bone is more associated with the remodeling phase that follows the fibrocartilage stage. Therefore, the emphasis on fibrocartilage and blood vessel formation distinctly highlights the central processes of the fibrocartilage stage in bone healing.