Which type of fracture occurs when the fractured area of the bone collapses on itself?

A compression fracture is characterized by the collapse of the fractured area of the bone, usually occurring in vertebrae or other bones under considerable weight or stress. This type of fracture is particularly common in individuals with conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis.

In a compression fracture, the bone loses height and often leads to a wedge shape, creating instability in the skeletal structure. This can result not only in pain but also in a loss of function depending on the location and severity of the fracture.

The other types of fractures mentioned do not involve the collapsing nature of a compression fracture. For example, a greenstick fracture is an incomplete fracture commonly seen in children, where the bone bends and partially breaks. A Colles fracture refers specifically to a fracture of the distal radius in the forearm that typically occurs from falling on an outstretched hand. A simple fracture is a general term referring to a clean break in the bone without any associated soft tissue injury or external wound.