What is the definition of an open fracture?

An open fracture is defined as a type of bone fracture in which the skin over the fracture site is broken, allowing the possibility for bone or fragments to be exposed outside of the body. This condition poses a significant risk of infection due to exposure to the environment. The presence of broken skin is critical because it distinguishes open fractures from closed fractures, where the skin remains intact despite the bone being broken underneath. Understanding this distinction is essential for proper assessment and treatment, particularly in emergency situations where prompt and appropriate first aid is required to minimize complications. The other definitions provided do not accurately describe the characteristics of an open fracture, as they either describe a closed fracture or incorrectly reference the general management of fractures.