What type of tissue is primarily formed during the inflammatory phase of healing?

The correct answer is scar tissue, which forms as a crucial part of the healing process during the inflammatory phase. When an injury occurs, the body initiates an inflammatory response, which is essential for healing. This phase involves the accumulation of various cells that help to clear out damaged tissue and pathogens, as well as signaling for repair processes.

As part of this response, fibroblast cells are activated. These cells play a significant role in the synthesis of extracellular matrix components, ultimately leading to the formation of scar tissue. Scar tissue is characterized by a different composition compared to the original tissue; it is typically denser and less flexible than the normal tissue it replaces, helping to close and protect the injury site.

Other tissue types mentioned are not primarily formed during the inflammatory phase. Bone tissue primarily develops during later phases of healing, especially if the injury is a fracture. Soft tissue is a broader classification that includes various types of tissues but does not specify the nature of repair that occurs during inflammation. Cartilage, similarly, is not formed during this initial healing phase; its repair and regeneration typically occur later in the healing timeline. Thus, scar tissue's formation during the inflammatory phase highlights its role as a critical element of the healing process.