The distinction between a broken bone and a fractured bone is a source of frequent confusion. This often leads to the mistaken belief that a “fracture” is a less severe injury than a “break.” Understanding the precise terminology used by healthcare professionals provides clarity on how bone injuries are classified and treated. This article will resolve the question of terminology and explore the medical criteria used to assess the nature and severity of skeletal injuries.
The Truth About Terminology
From a medical perspective, there is no difference between a broken bone and a fractured bone. The two terms are synonyms that describe the exact same injury: a discontinuity in the bone structure. “Fracture” is the formal, technical term used by doctors, orthopedists, and in clinical documents. “Broken bone” is generally used in everyday conversation. Both terms indicate that the integrity of the bone has been compromised by a force greater than it could withstand.
Medical Classification of Bone Breaks
Since “break” and “fracture” are interchangeable, medical professionals classify injuries based on the specific nature and severity of the damage. This classification determines the treatment plan, recovery time, and potential complications.
Types of Fractures
One primary distinction is based on whether the skin is involved. A closed, or simple, fracture occurs when the bone is broken but the overlying skin remains intact. An open, or compound, fracture is a more serious injury where the broken bone pierces the skin or a wound exposes the bone, significantly increasing the risk of infection.
Classification also relates to the extent of the break through the bone structure. A complete fracture involves the bone being broken entirely into two or more separate fragments. Conversely, an incomplete fracture, sometimes called a partial fracture, is one where the crack does not extend across the full width of the bone. The pattern of the break also provides important details, such as a transverse fracture (runs straight across the bone) or an oblique fracture (has an angled pattern). A greenstick fracture is a common incomplete break in children where one side of the bone is cracked and the other is bent.
What to Do Immediately After an Injury
If a bone break is suspected, the immediate focus should be on stabilizing the injury and seeking prompt professional medical attention. The most important initial step is to keep the injured person and the affected limb as still as possible to prevent further damage. Any unnecessary movement of the suspected fracture site can cause additional pain and injury.
A common first-aid approach for musculoskeletal injuries is to apply the RICE method, which stands for:
- Rest: Immobilize the area in the position it was found to prevent displacement of bone fragments.
- Ice: Apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to the area to help reduce pain and swelling, typically for 15 to 20 minutes at a time.
- Compression: Gently wrap the area to provide support and limit swelling.
- Elevation: Raise the injured limb above the level of the heart, if possible and comfortable, to slow blood flow and limit swelling.
Emergency medical services should be called immediately if the bone is protruding through the skin, if there is severe bleeding, or if the person shows signs of shock. Never attempt to push a protruding bone back into the body.