Classification of fractures

What is the definition of a fracture?

A fracture is a complete or incomplete break in the continuity of bone or cartilage.

What are the intrinsic causes of fractures?

Intrinsic causes of fractures include muscular contractions, pathological changes, stress, and nutritional deficiencies.

What is the difference between open and closed fractures?

Open fractures communicate with the environment due to broken skin, while closed fractures do not.

What type of fracture occurs when the fractured bone has penetrated the skin but may not communicate with the wound?

Type I (First Degree) open fracture.

What classification system is used specifically for physeal fractures in young animals?

Salter-Harris Classification System.

What is a greenstick fracture?

A type of incomplete fracture where one cortex of the bone fractures while the opposite cortex undergoes plastic deformation.

What are the characteristics of a comminuted fracture?

It involves two or more fracture lines and often results from high-energy trauma with extensive soft tissue damage.

What is meant by 'displacement of fracture fragments'?

It refers to the relative positioning of the fractured bone segments, such as shortening, lengthening, or angular displacement.

What indicates an unstable fracture?

Unstable fractures usually require stabilization to facilitate healing and may not support weight bearing.

What happens to the edges of older fractures?

Older fractures show rounded edges due to the healing process after 10 to 14 days.