What type of fracture is characterized by the skin remaining intact?

A closed fracture is characterized by the skin remaining intact despite a break in the bone. This means that there is no external wound or exposure of the bone to the external environment, which distinguishes it from an open fracture where the bone ends may protrude through the skin, creating a significant risk for infection and other complications.

In a closed fracture, the surrounding soft tissues may still be intact, and while there may be swelling and bruising, the fracture itself does not present an external injury. This type of fracture often occurs from a variety of mechanisms, including falls, sports injuries, or direct trauma. Proper assessment and imaging are necessary to determine the extent of the injury and appropriate treatment, which may involve immobilization or surgical intervention depending on the fracture's location and severity.

Understanding that a closed fracture has no breach of the skin is vital for emergency management and helps in planning for follow-up care and monitoring potential complications like internal bleeding or damage to surrounding structures.