Which characteristic is evaluated to classify a fracture as displaced or nondisplaced?

To classify a fracture as displaced or nondisplaced, the primary characteristic evaluated is the alignment of the bone fragments. A displaced fracture occurs when the fracture ends are not aligned properly, meaning that there is a noticeable separation between the pieces of bone. This misalignment can create an angle or overlap that must be corrected during treatment. In contrast, a nondisplaced fracture means that the bone fragments remain in their proper anatomical position, even though there may be a break in the continuity of the bone.

The evaluation of the alignment is crucial in determining how the fracture can be treated—whether it requires surgical intervention to realign the bones or if it can be managed through non-operative means. Other factors, such as the location of the fracture, the condition of the skin, and the type of fracture, may inform treatment and prognosis, but they do not determine whether the fracture is classified as displaced or nondisplaced. Thus, the assessment of bone fragment alignment is essential in making this specific classification.