Fat embolism results from systemic embolization of fat from disrupted marrow or adipose tissue. Arterial-venous shunting allows dispersion throughout the vascular system, while biochemical modification of the fat may also contribute to any subsequent clinical effects.
Some authorities consider fat embolism to be a universal effect of long-bone fracture, and many cases are clinically silent. Clinical manifestations usually present within 24–72 hours postinjury and positively correlate with the severity of injury; on occasions, the condition be life threatening.
It may occur during orthopedic surgery and is also associated with pancreatitis following abdominal trauma.
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© 2009 Springer-Verlag London Limited
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(2009). Fat Embolism. In: Trauma and Orthopedic Surgery in Clinical Practice. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84800-339-2_14
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-84800-339-2_14
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