open fracture
3
5.4
- noun
- /ˈoʊpən ˈfræktʃər/
- Specialized
:
fractura expuesta
- In cases of an open fracture, it is essential to clean the wound to prevent infection.
Examples
-
However, markedly displaced, multiple, comminuted, intraarticular, or open fractures will usually require operative treatment.
Academic text (2006) -
If the fractured bone comes through the skin, however, it is considered an open fracture (see Figure 12).
Academic text (2002) -
Grade I open fractures are smaller than 1 cm.
Academic text (2007) -
Providers need to carefully assess for any evidence of an open fracture or break in the skin.
Academic text (2006) -
As with any case of open fracture, providers should urgently refer these patients for operative treatment.
Academic text (2006) -
A closed fracture to the tibia is more common, whereas an open fracture is thought to be at higher risk for complications.
Academic text (2007) -
Grade II open fractures have laceration injuries and are 1 to 10 cm, with moderate tissue damage and possible contamination of the wound.
Academic text (2007) -
Surgery is usually only needed for markedly displaced, intraarticular (involves the joint), comminuted, or open fractures of the phalanx.
Academic text (2006) -
The doctor explained that he had suffered an open fracture after the accident, which exposed the bone through the skin.
-
After falling from the tree, she was rushed to the hospital with an open fracture in her arm.
Synonyms
6
6.0
A broken bone that tears through the skin, causing an open wound and a risk of infection
Antonyms
How Severe
- Specialized
1
8.1
- Specialized
3
5.4
- Specialized
1
4.1
9
5.1
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly built from 'open' (not closed/exposed) + 'fracture' (a break), so a learner who knows both words can infer this refers to a break that is exposed through the skin. This compositional pattern is straightforward and mirrors equivalent constructions in many languages, making it immediately understandable at B1.
Etymology
Open fracture gives a clear, physical picture: fracture means a 'break' in a bone and open shows the skin is broken so the bone is 'exposed' to the outside. That's why open fracture means a broken bone that comes through the skin and can more easily get infected.