Which fracture type breaks through the skin?

A fracture that breaks through the skin is classified as a compound or open fracture. This type of fracture involves not only a break in the bone but also an external wound that communicates with the fracture site. The risk associated with compound fractures is significant, as the open wound can lead to exposure to bacteria and other pathogens, increasing the chance of infection.

In contrast, a simple fracture, also known as a closed fracture, does not penetrate the skin, meaning the broken bone is confined within the body. A greenstick fracture, typically seen in children, is an incomplete fracture where the bone bends and cracks but does not break all the way through. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone resulting from repetitive force, overuse, or other stress factors, and it also does not break the skin. Therefore, the defining feature of a compound/open fracture is its direct connection with the external environment through the skin.