A stable fracture is characterized by which feature?

A stable fracture is characterized by minimal damage because it involves a break in the bone that maintains its proper alignment and is less likely to displace. In such fractures, the integrity of surrounding soft tissues is often preserved, which contributes to reduced complications and a more straightforward healing process. This aligns with the general definition of stable fractures, where stability implies that the broken ends of the bone remain in close apposition and do not move significantly, leading to less trauma to adjacent structures.

In contrast, options such as significant bleeding or severe instability are more typical of unstable fractures, which can present complications due to disrupted blood vessels and misaligned or completely displaced bones. Intense pain can occur with both stable and unstable fractures, but it is not a definitive characteristic of stability. Therefore, minimal damage is the key feature distinguishing a stable fracture from others, underscoring its less complicated nature.