How Fractures Heal

Smith & Nephew

The bone healing process involves several different phases.

In the earliest stage following the fracture, a blood clot forms at the fracture site. This is called a hematoma.
In the next stage of bone healing, fibrovascular tissue, commonly called scar tissue, replaces the clot (hematoma). This tissue helps to stabilize the fracture area.
Then genes and proteins in the bone marrow send signals to start producing immature bone cells (osteoblasts) and cartilage cells (chondrocytes).
Next, the membrane around the bone and the immature bone cells form a callus at the fracture site. Newly formed cartilage cells begin to replace the scar tissue.
In the final phase of healing, the immature bone cells held in place by the membrane grow and mature. This newly formed bone replaces the cartilage.

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