11 Types of fractures That Can Show Up in an X-ray or MRI

You'll find that one fractured bone heals at a different rate from another, depending on the type of fracture. Anshuman Rath / Shutterstock

A bone fracture can happen in an instant—from a fall, an accident, or even repetitive stress. But not all fractures are the same. Understanding the different types of fractures can help you grasp how bone breaks occur, how they’re diagnosed, and what the healing process might involve.

Here’s a list of common bone fractures, including what sets each one apart.

Contents

Closed Fracture
Open Fracture (aka Compound Fracture)
Displaced Fracture
Non-Displaced Fracture
Comminuted Fracture
Greenstick Fracture
Stress Fracture
Transverse Fracture
Oblique Fracture
Compression Fracture
Avulsion Fracture
Diagnosis and Treatment

1. Closed Fracture

Also known as a simple fracture, a closed fracture occurs when the bone is broken but does not pierce the skin. It may involve a partial or complete break, and the surrounding tissue remains intact.

2. Open Fracture (aka Compound Fracture)

In an open fracture, the bone pokes through the skin, creating a deep wound that exposes internal tissues. This type requires prompt medical attention due to the risk of infection and severe tissue damage.

3. Displaced Fracture

A displaced fracture occurs when the bone breaks into two or more pieces and moves out of alignment. Restoring the proper position often requires internal fixation with metal rods, screws, or plates.

4. Non-Displaced Fracture

Here, the bone is broken but remains in proper alignment. Many broken bones fall into this category and may be treated with a cast or splint to keep the fractured area stable.

5. Comminuted Fracture

This severe fracture shatters the bone into three or more pieces. Bone fragments complicate the healing process and may require surgery with internal or external fixation devices.

6. Greenstick Fracture

Common in children, this fracture occurs when a bone bends and cracks on one side without breaking completely. Because a child’s bones are softer and more flexible, they’re more prone to this kind of break.

7. Stress Fracture

Often caused by overuse or tired muscles, a stress fracture is a small crack in the bone. Athletes and runners are especially at risk. It may not show up easily on X-rays and sometimes requires magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis.

8. Transverse Fracture

This fracture has a horizontal fracture line and is typically caused by a direct blow or force. It results in a clean break straight across the bone.

9. Oblique Fracture

An oblique fracture features an angled break across the bone. It usually results from a twisting injury or sudden impact applied at an angle to the bone.

10. Compression Fracture

Common in the spine, a compression fracture occurs when the bone is crushed, causing it to flatten or collapse. Osteoporosis is a frequent cause, especially in older adults.

11. Avulsion Fracture

In this fracture, a ligament or tendon pulls a piece of bone away from the main bone due to a strong or steady pulling action. It often affects joints or areas where connective tissue is attached.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors diagnose bone fractures using physical exams and diagnostic tests like X-rays and MRI scans. Treatment varies depending on the fracture type but often includes:

Immobilization: Using casts or splints
Internal fixation: Metal plates or screws inside the body
External fixation: A metal frame attached outside the body

Most fractures require rest, reduced joint motion, and time for the bone to heal properly. In more severe fractures, surgery may be needed to restore normal function and maintain blood supply to the injured area.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.