Fat Embolism Syndrome

Courtesy: Prof Nabil Ebraheim, University of Toledo, Ohio, USA
This video describes fat embolism syndrome.Fat embolism syndrome occurs due to migration of fat particles from bone marrow during trauma or reaming of intramedullary canal.The resultant release of inflammatory mediators can result in endothelial lung damage and hypoxemia.Mortality rate in fat embolism is 10% and early stabilisation decreases the risk. The major causes are long bone and pelvic fractures, soft tissue injuries, diabetes mellitus and pancreatitis.The diagnostic criteria is that the patient should satisfy 1 major sign( which include confusion, agitation and petechiae in the conjunctiva, axilla or palate)and 4 minor signs(tachycardia,fever,anemia and fat in urine).Treatment is primarily supportive with oxygen and I.V fluids. In major cases mechanical ventilation may be necessary