American Board of Surgery Qualifying Exam (ABS QE) Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABS QE with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to enhance understanding. Start your journey to becoming a certified surgeon and tackle your exam with confidence!

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What is the expected transition of collagen types during wound healing?

  1. Type 3 collagen to type 1 collagen

  2. Type 1 collagen to type 2 collagen

  3. Type 4 collagen to type 3 collagen

  4. No change in collagen types

The correct answer is: Type 3 collagen to type 1 collagen

During the process of wound healing, the expected transition of collagen types involves the replacement of type 3 collagen with type 1 collagen. This transition is critical as type 3 collagen is primarily found in the initial stages of healing, contributing to the formation of granulation tissue. As healing progresses, type 1 collagen, which is stronger and more organized, gradually replaces type 3 collagen. This shift is essential for restoring the structural integrity and mechanical strength of the tissue. Type 1 collagen is the predominant collagen in mature scars and is responsible for providing tensile strength to the healed tissue. The conversion from type 3 to type 1 collagen typically happens within weeks to months after injury, showcasing the dynamic nature of wound healing as the tissue matures. Understanding this transition is vital for predicting healing outcomes and managing complications in surgical and traumatic wounds.