A broken bone that punctures the skin is called which type of fracture?

• A. Fracture
• B. Open fracture
• C. Compound fracture
• D. Stress fracture

Answer: (B)

An open fracture is when a broken bone punctures the skin, creating an open wound. This skin breach distinguishes it from a closed fracture, where the skin remains intact. The term “compound fracture” has historically described the same situation, but “open fracture” is the preferred, current term. A stress fracture is a hairline crack from repetitive stress and typically does not involve skin break. Because the bone is exposed, open fractures carry a higher risk of infection and usually require prompt cleaning, antibiotics, and stabilization.