What is the mechanism of wound contraction?
Fibroblasts in contracting wounds have increased actin microfilaments and are designated as myofibroblasts. These myofibroblasts orient themselves along lines of tension and pull collagen fibers together. Wound contraction is part of the normal healing process that closes wounds to the external environment. Scar contracture is an abnormal shortening and thickening of a scar that may cause functional (if across a joint) and/or cosmetic deformities.