Secondary hemostasis is the series of interrelated chemical processes that lead to the formation of durable fibrin strands, as well as being involved in their incorporation into the existing platelet plug, creating a fibrin clot.
The fibrin strands themselves are manufactured through the interaction of various coagulation factors via a process known as the coagulation cascade.
After fibrin strand construction, fibrin monomers are woven into the framework of the platelet plug, adding greater strength and stability. Once woven into the platelet plug and further stabilized with covalent cross-linking, a fibrin clot (the end goal of secondary hemostasis) is achieved. The fibrin clot is more durable and can withstand the blood shear stress caused by passing cells and plasma. This fibrin clot is more of a long term fix, allowing time for continued vascular repair.
