Texas Medical Assistant Certification Practice Test

What structural feature is essential for the healing of bones after a fracture?

1. Osteogenesis

2. Bone remodeling

3. Cartilage repair

4. Periosteal growth

The correct answer is: Bone remodeling

Bone remodeling is the process that is essential for the healing of bones after a fracture. This process involves the resorption of old or damaged bone tissue and the formation of new bone, allowing for the restoration of the bone structure and strength over time. During the healing process, after a fracture occurs, a cascade of biological events is initiated. Initially, a hematoma forms at the fracture site, followed by the development of a soft callus primarily composed of cartilage. Eventually, this soft callus is replaced by a hard callus made of woven bone through the process of ossification. Bone remodeling further refines this newly formed bone, transforming it from immature woven bone to mature lamellar bone, and ensuring that the bone regains its original strength and functionality. The other options also play roles in the healing process, but bone remodeling is crucial for ensuring the integrity and durability of the healed bone. Osteogenesis refers to the formation of bone tissue, while cartilage repair involves the healing of cartilage, which is not directly responsible for healing fractures in bones. Periosteal growth may contribute to the overall healing but is not as directly impactful on bone strength and structure as remodeling.