A displaced fracture is a broken bone where the broken ends are not lined up straight. According to the provided reference, in a displaced fracture, the bone snaps into two or more parts and moves so that the two ends are not lined up straight.
Displaced fractures differ significantly from non-displaced fractures. In non-displaced fractures, the bone cracks but maintains its proper alignment. Displaced fractures typically require more intensive medical intervention to ensure proper healing and restoration of function.
Here's a comparison:
| Feature | Displaced Fracture | Non-Displaced Fracture |
|---|---|---|
| Alignment | Ends of the bone are not lined up straight. | Bone maintains its proper alignment. |
| Bone Fragments | Bone snaps into two or more parts and moves. | Bone may crack, but pieces remain aligned. |
| Treatment | Often requires manipulation, surgery, or casting. | May only require a cast or splint. |
| Severity | Generally more severe. | Generally less severe. |
A comminuted fracture is a specific type of fracture where the bone breaks into many pieces. A comminuted fracture can also be displaced, but the terms are not interchangeable. Displaced refers to the alignment, while comminuted refers to the number of bone fragments.
