What is the term for a fracture that occurs without any open wound?

A fracture that occurs without any open wound is referred to as a closed fracture. This terminology is used to distinguish it from an open fracture, where the skin is broken and there is exposure of the bone or surrounding tissue. Closed fractures typically involve fractures where the bone is still intact within the surrounding soft tissue.

The distinction is important for treatment and management, as closed fractures usually have a lower risk of infection compared to open fractures. Additionally, the presence of soft tissue damage and the healing process can be significantly different between these two types of fractures. Understanding this classification helps orthopedic technologists in assessing injuries and determining appropriate treatment plans.