In the process of bone remodeling, which phase comes after resorption?

• A. Formation
• B. Reversal
• C. Activation
• D. Maintenance

Answer: (B)

In the process of bone remodeling, the correct phase that follows resorption is formation. During bone remodeling, the cycle begins with the activation phase where signaling stimulates osteoclasts to resorb bone tissue. Following this resorption phase, which is the breakdown of old bone, the formation phase occurs, whereby osteoblasts are recruited to lay down new bone matrix. This is critical for maintaining bone density and overall skeletal health.

The formation phase is essential as it allows for the replacement of the resorbed bone with new, healthy bone tissue. This process ensures that bone mass is continually renewed and that it responds effectively to mechanical stress and changes in physiological conditions.

The reversal phase typically refers to a transitional state between resorption and formation, but it is not a phase that follows resorption in the context of directly contributing to new bone formation. Instead, it indicates a preparatory period for osteoblasts prior to active bone formation. The activation phase occurs before resorption, and maintenance pertains to the ongoing state of bone health rather than a dynamic phase in the remodeling process. Therefore, the accurate answer to the question regarding the sequence of events in bone remodeling is formation, which immediately follows resorption.