Which of the following statements about greenstick fractures is true?

• A. They are complete fractures through the bone
• B. They are more common in adults than in children
• C. They are characterized by partial fractures on one side of the bone
• D. They usually heal faster than other types of fractures

Answer: (C)

Greenstick fractures are characterized by partial fractures on one side of the bone, similar to how a green twig bends and breaks. In these types of fractures, the bone does not completely break through; rather, one side of the bone is fractured while the other side remains intact. This type of fracture is particularly common in children, whose bones are still growing and are more pliable than those of adults. The nature of this fracture allows it to heal relatively quickly, as the less severe trauma typically involved in greenstick fractures means the bone overall experiences less disruption than complete fractures.

The other statements do not accurately describe greenstick fractures. They are not complete fractures, they are more common in children than adults, and while they may heal quickly, this is not a defining characteristic compared to other types of fractures.