Final answer:
An open or compound fracture is when splintered ends of bone puncture the skin, increasing infection risk. Fractures are categorized based on their complexity and location, and healing involves several stages including calli formation and bone remodeling.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of bone fractures, the type in which the splintered ends of bone are forced through the skin is known as an open fracture or a compound fracture. This type of fracture is particularly serious because it not only breaks the bone, but also breaks through the soft tissues around it, leading to a higher risk of infection. Fractures can be classified by their complexity, with common types including transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted, impacted, greenstick, and oblique fractures. The process of healing involves the formation of a hematoma, followed by the development of internal and external calli, and finally, bone remodeling through the actions of osteoclasts and osteoblasts.