A compound fracture, also known as an open fracture, occurs when a broken bone pierces through the skin. This type of injury can expose the bone and surrounding tissues to the external environment, increasing the risk of infection. Treatment for a compound fracture typically involves surgery to clean the wound and stabilize the bone, often using metal plates or screws. Proper care is essential to promote healing and prevent complications, such as infection or nonunion, where the bone fails to heal properly.