When tissues are injured, blood cell fragments called platelets gather at the wound,
providing a foundation for coagulation (clotting). Platelets are bound together by a glue-like
protein named von Willebrand factor. Once the initial platelet plug is built, clotting factors
gather at the injury site to seal the wound, stop bleeding, and begin the healing process. The
clotting factors work in a carefully timed sequence, resulting in a sturdy clot and healed
wound.