Common Types of Fractures

3. Comminuted Fracture

When a bone shatters, this is a comminuted fracture. Such injuries are classified as open fractures because the bone fragments become embedded in the surrounding tissue. Comminuted fractures are severe and require surgery to remove the pieces and reset the bone. Smaller bones, such as those in the hands and feet, are more susceptible to comminuted fractures., as they often occur in high-impact situations such as vehicle collisions or hard falls broken with outstretched hands. Many comminuted fractures require surgery to repair, and in some cases need a bone graft or artificial bone replacement.