What are common signs of a compound fracture?

Common signs of a compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, include visible bone protruding through the skin and severe pain. This type of fracture occurs when a bone breaks and the ends of the bone stick out through the skin, which not only increases the risk of infection but also indicates a more serious injury than a simple fracture. The presence of visible bone is a key differentiator for compound fractures and suggests a need for immediate medical attention to prevent complications.

Severe pain is typically associated with fractures due to the trauma involved and resultant tissue damage. In a compound fracture, the pain may be exacerbated by the exposure of the bone and surrounding soft tissues, as well as the body's inflammatory response to injury.

While signs such as swelling and discoloration, restricted movement, and minor pain and tenderness can occur with various types of fractures or injuries, they do not specifically indicate a compound fracture and miss the critical indicators that pertain to the severity and nature of this particular injury type.