American Board of Surgical Assistants (ABSA) Orthopedic Practice Test

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Prepare for the ABSA Orthopedic Test with in-depth questions and explanations. Use flashcards and quizzes to excel in your exam!

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What type of fracture occurs when one side of a bone is broken and the other side is bent?

Transverse
Greenstick
Comminuted
Oblique

The correct answer is: Greenstick

A fracture where one side of a bone is broken and the other side is bent is referred to as a greenstick fracture. This type of fracture typically occurs in children whose bones are still soft and pliable, resembling how a young green twig can bend and partially break without fully snapping. In adult bones, this pattern is less common because their structure is more rigid. The greenstick fracture results from a force that causes one side of the bone to fracture while allowing the other side to remain intact but bent. Understanding this type of fracture is crucial for diagnosing and treating pediatric injuries, as treatment often involves ensuring proper alignment and stabilization to allow for natural healing. This is distinctly different from the other types of fractures listed, which have different characteristics and mechanisms of injury.