TYPES OF FRACTURES

Hairline: Typically vertical, a hairline fracture extends only partway through the bone. Generally these fractures heal well because of their natural stability.

Greenstick: Trauma can cause immature bone to bend. As the bone “gives,” the side of the shaft opposite the blow pulls apart, resulting in a greenstick fracture. Young and healthy bones usually recover well from these fractures.

Transverse: A clean break across the bone shaft, a transverse fracture normally mends quickly when the ends are immobilized in perfect contact with each other.

Spiral: Also known as an oblique fracture, a spiral fracture occurs when twisting forces crack the bone into two pieces at a sharp angle. Both the angle of the fracture and the jagged edges make this a challenge to stabilize and heal fully.

Comminuted: A blow of immense force and/or speed can cause the bone to shatter. In a comminuted fracture the pieces of bone can sometimes be held in place by metal implants until they can reestablish connections. This is a challenging injury with a guarded prognosis, particularly for a return to an athletic career.

Compound: In a compound fracture, the broken bone lacerates the skin. This is a dangerous injury because of the risk of infection.