Types of Fractures

Question 1

Comminuted

Answer 1

Bone fragments into 3 or more pieces (common with brittle bones)

Question 2

Compression

Answer 2

Bone is crushed; collapse (weight-bearing bones; i.e. vertebra)

Question 3

Spiral

Answer 3

Ragged break when excessive twisting forces are applied to bone (common in sports)

Question 4

Epiphyseal

Answer 4

Epiphysis separates from diaphysis along the epiphyseal plate (occurs where cartilage cells are dying & calcification occurs)

Question 5

Depressed

Answer 5

Broken bone portion is pressed inward (skull fracture)

Question 6

Greenstick

Answer 6

Bone breaks incompletely, one side of shaft breaks & the other side bends (incomplete; common in children — flexibility)