Fractures - General Principles

Fracture - Terminology & Type

Important Fracture Terms
Fracture Types
Systematic Description
Specific Fracture Classifications
Special Fractures 
Fracture Mimics

Important Fracture Terms

• Comminuted fracture
  In a comminuted fracture, the bone is divided into multiple fragments. This type of fracture often indicates high-energy trauma/impact and may be accompanied by extensive damage to surrounding tissues. One speaks of a comminuted fracture when there are two or more fracture fragments.
   
• Intra-articular fracture
  The fracture line extends into the joint surface. The presence of intra-articular involvement requires special attention because it can affect joint function.
   
• Uncomplicated (closed) fracture
  A fracture in which the overlying skin remains intact.
   
• Complicated/open fracture
  A fracture in which a fracture fragment penetrates the skin. Not only the bone but also the surrounding structures (such as blood vessels, nerves, or soft tissues) are extensively affected. This increases the risk of infection and complications. Skin penetration is generally already clinically apparent. On imaging, extensive soft-tissue damage and the presence of air within the soft tissues may be signs of a complicated/open fracture.