AP Module 3- FRACTURES

Closed/simple

skin remains intact

Displaced

produces new/abnormal bone alignment

Transverse

Occurs straight across the long axis of the bone

Spiral

Bone segments are pulled apart as a result of a twisting motion 

Comminuted

• Several breaks  

• Results in many small pieces between two large segments (at least 3 pieces) 

• Typically needs surgical repair 

Impacted

• One fragment is driven into the other 

• Common when stopping fall with outstretched arms 

• “FOOSH” 

  • “Fall on out stretched hands” 

Compression

• Bone is crushed 

• Common in porous bones (osteoporotic bones) 

• Can occur in vertebrae under extreme stress 

Greenstick

• Partial fracture 

• Bone is broken only on one side 

• Common in younger children 

Depressed

• Bone is broken inwards 

• Common in skull fractures