What defines a closed fracture?

A closed fracture is specifically defined by the fact that it does not puncture the skin. In medical terminology, this means that while the bone is broken internally, the integrity of the skin remains intact, preventing any exposed bone or open wound from being present. This classification is essential for treatment considerations, potential complications, and understanding the nature of the injury.

Other conditions, such as severe swelling and bruising or bone misalignment, may accompany various types of fractures, but they do not determine whether a fracture is classified as closed. Likewise, a fracture with a punctured skin would not be considered closed, but rather an open fracture, which has more significant implications for treatment and increases the risk of infection. Thus, the defining characteristic of a closed fracture lies solely in the fact that the skin is unbroken.