What is a closed or simple fracture?

A closed or simple fracture refers to a break in the bone where the skin remains intact, meaning there is no external wound associated with the fracture. This type of fracture is significant because it typically involves less risk of infection and allows for a clearer determination of the injury when it is examined through imaging techniques such as X-rays.

The classification as "simple" indicates that the fracture is relatively straightforward, with clean breaks rather than splintering or shattering, which could lead to more complications during healing. Understanding the distinctions between various fracture types is essential, especially in the context of medical treatment and recovery.

Recognizing that other options involve open fractures or those with skin breaks highlights their differing characteristics and implications for treatment and prognosis, thus making the definition of a closed or simple fracture particularly important in clinical settings where precise understanding of injuries is required.