Fracture, Open

Description

• Continuity between skin violation and fracture site, ranging from a puncture wound to grossly exposed bone
• Surgical urgency, as delays in care increase risk of infection and rate of complications
• Predisposition to complications in certain patients:
  • Massive soft tissue damage
  • Severe wound contamination
  • Compromised vascularity
  • Fracture instability
  • Compromised host (diabetes, vascular disease)

Etiology

Open fractures typically result from significant blunt force or penetrating trauma