Which of the following types of fractures is characterized by the skin remaining intact?

The fracture type characterized by the skin remaining intact is known as a closed or simple fracture. In this type of fracture, the bone is broken, but there is no penetration through the skin. This means that the surrounding tissues and skin are not compromised, which generally allows for a lower risk of infection and a more straightforward healing process compared to open fractures, where the bone breaks and projects through the skin.

Closed fractures can occur in various patterns, such as transverse or comminuted, but the defining characteristic is that the skin remains unbroken. This is crucial for understanding treatment and recovery, as it impacts how medical professionals manage the fracture and the patient's overall care.