Fat Embolism—Some Clinical Observations and a Review of Controversial Aspects

摘要

Eight cases of fat embolism have been seen during a 15-month period. Of these, three died and five survived.Pulmonary-function tests performed in three of the surviving patients have shown a complete return to normal of pulmonary function.The importance of early recognition and correction of hypoxaemia is emphasized, with special reference to the cases seen.Controversial aspects of the syndrome, including the source of the embolic fat, its pathophysiological effects, and the treatment are discussed with reference to the literature.Attention is drawn to the observation that late internal fixation procedures on the fractured bones can be undertaken safely.