Final answer:
An open fracture is when the bone pierces through the skin, posing a high risk of infection, and generally requires open reduction surgery to treat effectively.
Step-by-step explanation:
The medical term for a fracture that causes the bone to pierce through the skin is known as an open fracture. This type of fracture is particularly serious because it presents a high risk of infection due to the exposure of the bone and the internal tissues to the external environment. Open fractures require emergency medical treatment and often necessitate a procedure called open reduction, which involves surgery to expose the fracture and reset the bone. It is vital to manage such fractures promptly to prevent severe complications, such as the release of fat globules into the bloodstream, leading to respiratory distress or other life-threatening conditions.