Fractured skull. Coloured X-ray of a depressed fracture (red, upper left) in the back of a skull, seen from behind. Depressed fractures of the skull are caused by a high-energy impact from a blunt object. In severe cases the fragments of bone may need to be surgically elevated to their correct positions. Direct brain damage is a high risk for skull injuries. Neck bones (vertebrae) are seen at lower centre.