In what condition is a closed fracture defined?

A closed fracture is accurately defined as a condition where the bone is broken but the skin remains intact. This means that while the integrity of the bone is compromised, there is no external wound or opening in the skin through which the fracture is exposed. This classification is important in the context of treatment and management, as closed fractures typically have a lower risk of infection compared to open fractures, where the skin is broken and the fracture is exposed to the environment. Understanding this distinction helps healthcare providers determine the appropriate course of action for patient care.

In contrast, a fracture with a broken skin barrier indicates an open fracture, which presents different clinical considerations, such as potential for contamination and the need for possible surgical intervention. Minor skin abrasions related to fractures might also complicate diagnosis and treatment but do not define a closed fracture condition, which specifically requires intact skin.