Fat Embolisms in Lower Organ Fractured Patients Referred to Taleghani Hospital of Kermanshah (2003-4)

Abstract

Introduction: Fat embolism is a rare but serious consequence of fracture which is also potentially fatal. It is caused by the occlusion of blood vessels by fat globules in the brain and lungs, causing bleeding into the alveoli and the disruption of oxygen transfer. Clinical manifestations are: respiratory failure, loss of consciousness, fever, tachycardia and petchiae, all following the fracture of a lower organ. Appropriate care can reduce its incidence through fixing of the organ and the administration of oxygen, electrolytes, rehydration and suitable analgesics. The objective of this research was to study the lower organ fractured patients (LOFPs) referred to the Talaghani Hospital of Kermanshah during 2003-4.