Which type of fracture involves multiple bone fragments?

A comminuted fracture is characterized by the presence of multiple bone fragments resulting from the bone breaking into three or more pieces. This type of fracture often occurs due to high-impact trauma or severe forces applied to the bone, making it more complex than other types of fractures. The presence of multiple fragments can complicate healing and often requires more extensive treatment, such as surgery for stabilization and proper alignment.

In contrast, a linear fracture is a simple fracture that runs parallel to the long axis of the bone, while an impacted fracture occurs when one fragment of bone is driven into another, typically seen in situations like falls. An oblique fracture has a curved or sloped pattern across the bone but does not involve multiple separate fragments. These distinctions help clarify why the comminuted fracture, with its multiple fragments, stands out as the appropriate answer.