FAT EMBOLISM: A PROBLEM OF INCREASING IMPORTANCE TO THE ORTHOPEDIST AND THE INTERNIST

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Abstract
Under the fast-moving conditions of modern life, trauma is displacing infection as one of the principal causes of morbidity. One of its complications, fat embolism, presents problems in differential diagnosis and management wherein the internist can be of help if he is cognizant of the clinical findings, their pathophysiology and treatment. The typical case follows the fracture of a long bone. There is a "free interval" followed by pulmonary, cerebral and cutaneous phases. Petechiae in the axillae and upper torso characterize the latter. To prevent fat emboli, immediate splinting and gentle transportation of injured is required. Fractures should be reduced and immobilized early. 5% glucose and 5% alcohol intravenously, positive pressure O2, low fat diet and heparin are recommended.
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