By fracture, we mean a break in a bone or cartilage. When the ends of the bone are driven through the skin, or an opening made that permits the atmosphere to enter, it is compound, and where a nerve, artery or vein is injured, a complicated fracture. The immediate treatment is much the same. The first thing to do is to place the limb in as nearly a natural position as possible. This should be done carefully and gently lest surrounding tissues, arteries, and nerves be injured. After placing the limb in position it should be so maintained by means of splints, or pieces of board. When a leg has been broken, it may be tied to the other. If on the road or in the field, and no other means, are obtainable this will be found a very useful expedient. A broken leg requires that the support should extend at least to or above the middle of the thigh. The latter would be better.

When the thigh is broken, if it is possible to secure one, have the splint extended to the armpits. A broken forearm should be bent at the elbow and extended across, and the palm of the hand toward the body, and should be maintained in this position. A fractured arm may be tied to the body, or to a splint extending its whole length. If bandages cannot be secured use may be made of handkerchiefs, or even ropes of straw, or grass may be made to do duty. Where ropes or short bandages are used.

They should be tied above and below the fracture, leaving it unbound for two or three inches either way. The splint for the thigh should be tied to the body just below the armpit, around the waist, and several times Between the waist and foot. A shirt may be torn up for bandages. In removing the clothing from a broken limb it is best to cut it.