Which type of fracture breaks the bone into many fragments?

• A. Open fracture
• B. Comminuted fracture
• C. Greenstick fracture
• D. Spiral fracture

Answer: (B)

This question tests your understanding of fracture patterns defined by how the bone breaks. A comminuted fracture means the bone is broken into three or more pieces—many fragments at the fracture site—usually from a high-energy impact. That fragmentation is the defining feature, setting it apart from other types.

Open fractures involve the bone breaking and the overlying skin being breached, not necessarily creating multiple bone pieces. Greenstick fractures are incomplete breaks where the bone bends on one side and cracks on the other, common in children. Spiral fractures result from a twisting force that winds around the bone, producing a helical break rather than many fragments.