What type of fracture has bone protruding from the skin?

The type of fracture that involves bone protruding from the skin is referred to as an open fracture. This is characterized by the fact that the fracture creates an external wound, which can lead to an increased risk of infection since the broken bone is exposed to the environment. The term "open" refers specifically to the breaking of the skin and the exposure of the bone, distinguishing it from other fracture types where the skin remains intact.

In contrast, a closed fracture (or simple fracture) occurs when the bone is broken but the skin overlying the fracture site remains unbroken. This type poses a lower risk of infection compared to an open fracture. A stable fracture generally refers to a fracture that is not displaced or misaligned and does not specify whether the skin is broken or intact. Thus, the defining characteristic of an open fracture is the involvement of the skin and the external environment, making it important for treatment and management in a clinical setting.