Which type of fracture is characterized by a broken bone that is in several pieces?

A comminuted fracture is specifically defined as one where the bone is broken into several pieces or fragments. This type of fracture often occurs as a result of high-impact trauma, such as in car accidents or severe falls. The multiple fragments can complicate the healing process and may require surgical intervention to stabilize the bone and ensure proper healing.

In contrast, other types of fractures have different characteristics. A transverse fracture involves a clean break across the bone, typically resulting in two major pieces. A greenstick fracture is more common in young animals, where the bone bends and partially breaks, resembling how a young tree branch may break. A stress fracture is a small crack in the bone that occurs due to repetitive force or overuse, rather than a break that results in multiple pieces. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment in veterinary medicine.