What type of fracture is also known as a simple fracture?

A simple fracture is referred to as a closed fracture. This type of fracture occurs when the bone breaks but does not pierce through the skin, ensuring that there is no open wound associated with the injury. The lack of skin laceration minimizes the risk of infection and allows for a potentially easier healing process, as the surrounding tissues remain intact.

In contrast, an open fracture refers to a situation where the broken bone protrudes through the skin, making it exposed to the external environment. This exposure significantly heightens the risk of infection and usually requires more complex medical intervention.

Similarly, the term "compound fracture" is often used interchangeably with an open fracture and highlights the same risk factors due to skin penetration. A complete fracture refers to a type of fracture where the bone is completely broken, but it does not indicate whether the fracture is closed or open. Thus, identifying a simple fracture specifically as a closed fracture underlines its significance in terms of both injury treatment and management.