Which phase of wound healing is characterized by collagen synthesis and reorientation of collagen fibers?

The phase of wound healing characterized by collagen synthesis and the reorientation of collagen fibers is the maturation phase. During this phase, which occurs after the initial inflammatory and proliferative phases, the body continues to repair the wound. The collagen produced during the earlier stages becomes denser and is restructured to improve the tensile strength of the tissue.

Collagen is a key protein that helps in providing strength and support to tissues. In the maturation phase, the collagen fibers are gradually realigned and cross-linked, which enhances the mechanical properties of the scar tissue. This phase can last for months or even years after the injury, resulting in the gradual fading and improving of scar tissue as the body continues to reorganize the collagen matrix.

In other phases, such as the inflammatory or proliferative phases, the focus is on clearing out debris, forming granulation tissue, and establishing the initial stages of repair rather than the synthesis and reorganization of collagen. Thus, it is the maturation phase that distinctly focuses on these crucial processes, making it the correct answer.