American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What is a compound fracture?

1. Involves no external injury

2. Projects through the skin and may lead to infection

3. Affects only the outer layer of the bone

4. Is a simple fracture with minor damage

The correct answer is: Projects through the skin and may lead to infection

A compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, is characterized by the break in the bone that projects through the overlying skin. This type of fracture is particularly significant because it presents a higher risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone and the inner tissues to the external environment. The open wound created by the fracture can allow bacteria to enter, leading to complications such as osteomyelitis, which is an infection of the bone. This definition distinguishes compound fractures from other types, such as simple fractures, where the bone breaks but does not pierce the skin. In simple fractures, the risk of infection is considerably lower because the integrity of the skin remains intact. The other options inaccurately describe the nature of a compound fracture by either understating the injury involved or mischaracterizing the extent of the damage to the bone. In summary, the hallmark of a compound fracture is the communication with the skin surface, which poses a substantial clinical concern.