What defines a closed/simple fracture?

A closed or simple fracture is defined as a type of bone fracture where the broken bone does not extend through the skin. This means that although the bone has been fractured, the integrity of the skin remains intact. This distinction is important in the context of management and treatment because closed fractures typically pose a lower risk of infection compared to open fractures, where the broken bone would protrude through the skin and create an entry point for bacteria.

While other types of fractures, such as open fractures, can lead to complications such as infections or delayed healing, the closed fracture allows for a more straightforward healing process. The severity of the fracture can vary greatly; however, it is not inherently defined by a "severe" classification, which is why the options regarding the severity of the fracture and the healing time do not accurately describe what constitutes a closed or simple fracture.