How does a compound fracture differ from a simple fracture?

A compound fracture differs from a simple fracture primarily by the involvement of the skin in the injury. In the case of a compound fracture, the broken bone pierces through the skin, creating an external wound. This not only complicates the fracture due to the risk of infection entering through the open wound but also typically indicates a more serious injury that may require surgical intervention to repair both the bone and the damaged soft tissue.

On the other hand, a simple fracture, also known as a closed fracture, occurs when the bone is broken but the skin remains intact. This distinction is crucial in terms of treatment and the potential for complications. While both types of fractures involve damage to the bone, the presence of an open wound in a compound fracture makes it a more complex and urgent situation requiring appropriate medical management to facilitate healing and prevent infections.