Which of the following best defines granulation tissue?

Granulation tissue is best defined as new connective tissue and blood vessels that form on the surface of a wound. This tissue is an important part of the healing process, as it provides a foundation for new tissue to develop and plays a critical role in filling in wounds. When a wound occurs, granulation tissue usually appears in the healing stage, indicating that the body is working to repair the damaged area.

The formation of granulation tissue is characterized by its granular appearance due to the combination of newly formed capillaries and collagen-rich connective tissue. This tissue not only helps to temporarily bridge the wound but also supports the regeneration of skin and other tissues, making it essential for effective healing.

In contrast, while scar tissue is the end result of healing and develops after granulation tissue has formed and matured, it is not the same thing as granulation tissue itself. The other options relate to aspects of tissue related to wounds or skin but do not specifically capture the essence of granulation tissue and its role in wound healing.