He decided to limit his trials of carbolic acid to compound fractures: injuries in which splintered bone lacerated the skin. This particular kind of break had a high rate of infection and frequently led to amputation. From an ethical standpoint, testing carbolic acid on compound fractures was sound. If the antiseptic failed, the leg could still be amputated—something that would have likely occurred anyway. But if the carbolic acid worked, then the patient’s limb would be saved.
