Fragmentary segmental multifragmentary fracture

These fractures are classified as AO/OTA 42C3 fractures. These are complex fractures with several irregular intermediate fragments involving 4 cm or more (extensive fragmentation) of the tibial diaphysis. These are the most serious of the tibial fractures. Although the center of the fracture site is in the diaphysis, the fracture line often extends to the metaphyseal-epiphyseal segments.

Since these are high-energy fractures, they are often associated with significant soft tissue damage, which may influence treatment options.

This radiograph shows an AO/OTA 42C3 open fracture.