Fractures are divided into simple and compound; a simple fracture is one in which the bone alone is broken, and in which the skin or integument over the seat of the fracture remains perfectly intact. A compound fracture is one in which the skin and tissues over the fracture are lacerated or wounded so that the ends of the broken bones protrude or are exposed to view. In a case of fracture, no matter of what variety, the first object to be accomplished is to carefully remove the patient to a place where he may be in a comfortable position. If the fracture is in the arm or leg it should be comfortably supported on a pillow so as to relieve the injured limb from all strain. In compound fractures, the wound should be carefully covered with a soft clean compress which is kept thoroughly wetted with clean cold water until the surgeon arrives. Sometimes the circumstances make it necessary to remove or transport a patient; then the injured limb must be properly supported so that it will remain motionless on the journey. In case the arm is fractured the above object is readily accomplished by placing it in a sling suspended from the neck. In the case of the lower extremities this object is more difficult. The leg should be wrapped in cotton first, or some other soft clean substance, after which a slat should be placed on the outside and inside of the limb, the same length as the limb; over and around these slats strips of muslin or a bandage is wound so as to keep them in place. This contrivance forms a temporary or improvised splint until the surgeon takes charge of the case. (_b_) Wounds are defined as a recent sudden solution of continuity in the soft parts or flesh of the body. For the sake of convenience in description and for practical purposes, wounds are divided into incised, lacerated, contused, punctured, and poisoned wounds. An incised wound is a clean smooth cut made by a sharp clean-cutting instrument. A lacerated wound is one in which the parts have been torn asunder or in which the instrument was blunt or dull. A contused wound is one the result of a bruise or blow inflicted with a blunt object or by a flat surface. A punctured wound is one in which the flesh is pierced with a sharp-pointed instrument, like that made with a stiletto or bayonet. Poisoned wounds are such as have become infected any time after the receipt of the injury, or which are the result of a bite or sting from a reptile or insect. The danger of wounds depends on their extent and depth, and upon the locality or organ in which the wound is situated. The external wounds, that is those which admit of inspection, and situated on the head, trunk or extremities are of most frequent occurrence, and the most amenable to treatment.