Síndrome de embolismo graso en fractura de huesos largos, reporte de caso / Fat embolism syndrome in long bone fractures, case report

Introducción: El síndrome de embolismo graso es una complicación severa, aun-que poco frecuente de trauma grave. Es desencadenado por el paso de partículas de grasa hacia la microcirculación en varios órganos. La tríada característica: lesión pulmonar, hemorragia petequial y disfunción neurológica. Su prevalencia varía se-gún los criterios diagnósticos y la causa desencadenante, dificultando su detección temprana. Presentación del caso: Caso 1. Paciente 22 años, masculino, sufrió accidente automovilístico con fracturas abierta de fémur, tibia y peroné derechos, resueltas quirúrgicamente, a las 5 horas del evento sufre deterioro respiratorio, petequias conjuntivales, torácicas y en extremidades; posteriormente deterioro de concien-cia, estatus epiléptico y síndrome de hiperactividad simpática paroxística. Caso 2. Paciente 29 años, masculino, sufrió volcamiento del vehículo en el que viajaba, sufriendo fracturas cerradas de tibia, peroné y fémur izquierdas, luego de la cirugía traumatológica sufrió deterioro del estado de conciencia, petequias conjuntivales e hipoxemia.Diagnósticos e intervenciones: los dos pacientes fueron operados para resolución traumatológica dentro de las primeras 24 horas, luego del aparecimiento de síntomas neurológicos se sometieron a neuroimagen encontrándose el patrón de "campo de es-trellas" y recibieron corticoides.Resultados: Caso 1 el desenlace fue estado vegetativo, Caso 2 recuperación completa.Conclusión: La detección es imprescindible para establecer el tratamiento temprano, planificar la cirugía traumatológica o diferirla y estimar el pronóstico según la evolu-ción. El síndrome de embolia grasa cerebral es una causa rara del síndrome de hipe-ractividad simpática paroxística

Introduction: Fat embolism syndrome is a severe, although rare complication of major trauma. It is triggered by the passage of fat particles into the microcirculation in various organs. The characteristic triad: lung injury, petechial hemorrhage and neurological dysfunction. Its prevalence varies according to the diagnostic criteria and the triggering cause, making its early detection difficult. Case presentation: Case 1. Patient 22 years old, male, suffered a car accident with open fracture of the right femur, tibia and fibula, surgically resolved, 5 hours after the event he suffered respiratory impairment, conjunctival, thoracic and extre-mity petechiae; later impaired consciousness, status epilepticus and paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity syndrome. Case 2. Patient 29 years old, male, suffered overturning of the vehicle in which he was traveling, suffering closed fractures of the left tibia, fibula and femur, after trauma surgery he suffered impaired consciousness, conjunctival petechiae and hypoxemia.Diagnoses and interventions: Both patients underwent surgery for trauma reso-lution within 24 hours, after the appearance of neurological symptoms they un-derwent neuroimaging finding "star field" pattern, both received corticosteroids.Results: Case 1 the outcome was vegetative state, Case 2 complete recovery.Conclusion: Detection is essential to establish early treatment, to plan trauma sur-gery or to defer it and to estimate prognosis according to evolution. Cerebral fat em-bolism syndrome is a rare cause of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity syndrome.

Increase in optic nerve sheath diameter predicts early cerebral involvement in fat embolism syndrome / 中华创伤杂志(英文版)

Early diagnosis of cerebral fat embolism in a patient with contradiction to MRI is challenging. Here we report an interesting case, where the raised optic nerve sheath diameter helped us to predict the early cerebral involvement with fat emboli in a left femoral shaft fracture patient. MRI scan could not be performed due to the presence of a metallic implant in the patient from a previous surgery. He was later diagnosed as an atypical presentation of fat embolism syndrome. Optic nerve sheath monitoring also helped us to guide further management of the patient.

Fatal Non-traumatic Fat Embolism

@#Non-traumatic fat embolism (NTFE) is infrequently encountered in the clinical setting. The incidence of clinically detected fat embolism is less than 1%. It is diagnosed based on the evidence of fat emboli occluding the vessel lumen in a patient with no prior history of trauma. We report a case of NTFE in a lady who developed breathlessness and collapsed following home vaginal delivery. Post-mortem examination revealed extensive fat emboli in the pulmonary vessels. We elucidate the clinical challenges in diagnosing fat embolism (FE) in a patient without history of trauma.

Sudden death caused by Clostridium perfringens sepsis presenting as massive intravascular hemolysis

An 80-year-old Japanese woman with diabetes mellitus was admitted with gastrointestinal symptoms and pyrexia. At presentation, liver abscesses and severe hemolytic anemia were noted. Before detailed diagnostic evaluation and adequate treatment, she suddenly died 2.5 hours after admission. The autopsy and bacteriological examinations revealed liver abscesses and massive intravascular hemolysis caused by Clostridium perfringens as well as other miscellaneous critical pathological findings, including acute renal tubular necrosis, lung edema, and pulmonary fat embolism. In this article, the detailed autopsy results are described and clinicopathologic characteristics on Clostridium perfringens-related sudden death are discussed with a review of the literature.

Síndrome De Embolia Grasa Postraumática, Síntomas Neurológicos Sin Clínica Respiratoria En Ausencia De Foramen Oval Permeable / Posttraumatic Fat Embolism Syndrome, Neurological Symptoms Without Respiratory Symptoms In The Absence Of Permeable Foramen Ovale

Resumen El síndrome de embolia grasa es una complicación potencialmente catastrófica de las fracturas de huesos largos. La tríada clásica de síntomas son erupciones cutáneas petequiales, hipoxemia y anomalías neurológicas, que generalmente ocurren dentro de las 24 a 72 horas posteriores a la fractura. El componente respiratorio se presenta en prácticamente la totalidad de los reportes. Presentamos el caso de un paciente con embolia grasa postraumática con clínica neurológica preponderante, sin afectación respiratoria en ausencia de foramen oval permeable.

Abstract Fat embolism syndrome is a potentially catastrophic complication of long-bone fractures. The classic triad of symptoms are petechial skin rashes, hypoxemia, and neurological abnormalities, which usually occur within 24 to 72 hours after the fracture. The respiratory component occurs in practically all of the reports. We present the case of a patient with posttraumatic fat embolism with predominant neurological symptoms, without respiratory involvement in the absence of patent foramen ovale.

Sudden death caused by pulmonary fat embolism in a patient with miliary tuberculosis

An 84-year-old Japanese woman with myelodysplastic syndrome was admitted with pyrexia and dyspnea, but died suddenly during diagnostic evaluation. The autopsy revealed miliary tuberculosis in addition to myelodysplastic syndrome in the bone marrow. The immediate cause of the patient's sudden death was pulmonary fat embolism derived from bone marrow necrosis. This case shows that the infiltration of the myelodysplastic bone marrow by tuberculosis and consequent bone marrow necrosis and fat embolism can be the cause of sudden death. In this article, we report the autopsy results of this unusual cause of sudden death, and discuss tuberculosis-related sudden death with a review of the literature.

Síndrome de hiperatividade simpática paroxística causada por síndrome da embolia gordurosa / Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity syndrome caused by fat embolism syndrome

RESUMO A hiperatividade simpática paroxística representa uma complicação incomum, com potencial risco à vida, de lesões cerebrais graves, mais comumente de origem traumática. Seu diagnóstico clínico se baseia na manifestação recorrente de taquicardia, hipertensão, diaforese, taquipneia e, às vezes, febre, além de posturas distônicas. Os episódios podem ser induzidos por estímulos ou ocorrer de forma espontânea. É comum que ocorra subdiagnóstico desta síndrome, e o retardamento de seu reconhecimento pode aumentar a morbidade e a incapacidade em longo prazo. Evitar os desencadeantes e a farmacoterapia podem ter muito sucesso no controle desta complicação. A síndrome da embolia gordurosa é uma complicação rara, mas grave, das fraturas de ossos longos. Sinais neurológicos, petéquias hemorrágicas e insuficiência respiratória aguda são as características que constituem seu quadro clínico. O termo "embolia gordurosa cerebral" é estabelecido quando predomina o envolvimento neurológico. O diagnóstico é clínico, porém achados específicos de neuroimagem podem confirmá-lo. As manifestações neurológicas incluem diferentes graus de alteração da consciência, défices focais ou convulsões. Seu tratamento é de suporte, porém são possíveis desfechos favoráveis, mesmo nos casos com apresentação grave. Relatamos dois casos de hiperatividade simpática paroxística após embolia gordurosa cerebral, uma associação muito incomum.

ABSTRACT Paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity represents an uncommon and potentially life-threatening complication of severe brain injuries, which are most commonly traumatic. This syndrome is a clinical diagnosis based on the recurrent occurrence of tachycardia, hypertension, diaphoresis, tachypnea, and occasionally high fever and dystonic postures. The episodes may be induced by stimulation or may occur spontaneously. Underdiagnosis is common, and delayed recognition may increase morbidity and long-term disability. Trigger avoidance and pharmacological therapy can be very successful in controlling this complication. Fat embolism syndrome is a rare but serious complication of long bone fractures. Neurologic signs, petechial hemorrhages and acute respiratory failure constitute the characteristic presenting triad. The term cerebral fat embolism is used when the neurological involvement predominates. The diagnosis is clinical, but specific neuroimaging findings can be supportive. The neurologic manifestations include different degrees of alteration of consciousness, focal deficits or seizures. Management is supportive, but good outcomes are possible even in cases with very severe presentation. We report two cases of paroxysmal sympathetic hyperactivity after cerebral fat embolism, which is a very uncommon association.

Cerebral infarction following facial autologous fat transplantation: report of two cases / 中华神经科杂志

Facial autologous fat transplantation is a common aesthetic procedure.Although this procedure is generally regarded as safe,several patients have experienced acute cerebral infarction after fat particles were incorrectly injected into the blood vessel.We report two cases of cerebral infarction following facial autologous fat transplantation:one patient suffered massive cerebral infarction due to the occlusion of internal carotid artery by fat embolus and died of stroke related complication,the other young women experienced acute ischemic stroke and ophthalmic artery embolism during this procedure and remained permanent blindness of right eye.Therefore,when a patient presents abrupt mental change,hemiplegia,blindness during autologous fat particle injection,doctors must consider the complication of cerebral infarction.

High risk factors of fat embolism syndrome in multiple trauma patients combined with femoral shaft fractures / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To investigate the high risk factors of fat embolism syndrome (FES) in multiple trauma patients combined with femoral shaft fractures.Methods A case series retrospective study was employed to evaluate 36 patients with FES after multiple fractures of femoral shaft fracture admitted from January 2010 to December 2015,including 30 males and six females aged 18-52 years (mean,36.2 years).According to whether the patients were combined with other parts injuries such as in chest,abdomen and brain,the patients can be divided into two groups,namely,Group A (9 cases) were simple femoral fractures patients with multiple fractures,and Group B (27 cases) were femoral shaft fracture associated with other parts of the fracture or splanchnocoele injury or craniocerebral injury.The quantitative assessment was used by revised trauma severity score (RISS) and the types of the femoral shaft fracture were classified by AO.The relationship of RISS range and types of femoral shaft fractures were evaluated.Results RISS was over 11 points in all cases.Among them,the RISS range of Group A patients was from 11 to 18 points (mean,13 points),with type C in AO classification accounting for 67％ and type B for 33％.The RISS range of Group B patients was from 18 to 25 points (mean,21 points),with type C in AO classification accounting for 78％ and type B for 19％.FES occurrence was positively correlated with the RISS (r =0.684,P ＜ 0.01),with type C the most common classification.Conclusions Clinical doctors should raise vigilance and take the following indicators as high risk factors for FES,ie,the multiple trauma patients combined with femoral shaft fractures plus RISS over 11 points,the multiple trauma patients combined with other parts of the fractures or splanchnocoele injury or craniocerebral injury plus RISS over 18 points,mainly type C femoral shaft fracture.

Síndrome de embolia grasa con predominio de síntomas neurológicos / Fat embolism syndrome with predominant neurological symptoms / Síndrome de embolia gordurosa com predomínio de sintomas neurológicos

Introducción. La embolia grasa es la obstrucción de los vasos sanguíneos de pequeño calibre por lípidos producidos durante la degradación tisular. Se presenta en individuos con fracturas de huesos largos, y es asintomático en más del 90 % de los casos. El síndrome de embolia grasa corresponde a un proceso grave poco frecuente en la práctica clínica, caracterizado por la aparición de petequias, dificultad respiratoria y alteraciones neurológicas. Reporte de caso. Se trata de una mujer adulta joven con trauma cerrado de tórax y fracturas múltiples de huesos largos de las extremidades superiores e inferiores por politraumatismo de alta energía, que fue sometida a reducción bajo anestesia de las fracturas. A las 48 horas, comenzó a presentar dificultad respiratoria, exantema petequial de predominio en la pared anterior del tórax y deterioro neurológico con convulsiones tónico-clónicas focales y bilaterales, que cedieron con un medicamento anticonvulsivo intravenoso. Se le diagnosticó síndrome de embolia grasa debido al antecedente de trauma y a las lesiones evidenciadas en la resonancia magnética. Se le brindó soporte respiratorio y terapia anticoagulante, con lo cual el cuadro clínico mejoró. Discusión. El tejido graso ingresa a la circulación cuando la presión en el lecho del drenaje venoso es superada por la presión en la médula ósea. Los ácidos grasos libres tóxicos causan edema vasogénico y citotóxico, así como hemorragia por destrucción celular. Conclusión. Es importante considerar la presencia de esta complicación en pacientes con múltiples fracturas y brindar un tratamiento oportuno con la intención de disminuir las secuelas asociadas con esta condición

Introduction: Fatty embolism is the obstruction of small blood vessels by lipid product of tissue degradation. It occurs in individuals with long bone fractures, being asymptomatic in more than 90% of cases. The fat embolism syndrome corresponds to a severe and rare process in clinical practice, characterized by the appearance of petechiae, respiratory stress and neurological disorders. Case report: Young adult with high energy-polytrauma and closed chest trauma with multiple fractures of long bones of the upper and lower extremities who was taken to operating theater for redu-cing them under anesthesia. Forty-eight hours after, she began to present with respiratory distress, petechial rash predominantly in the anterior thorax and neurological deterioration with focal seizure activity to bilateral tonic-clonic, which yielded with intravenous anticonvulsant. A fat embolism syndrome was diagnosed due to the history of trauma and the lesions evidenced in the magnetic resonance. She was given respiratory support and anticoagulant therapy, with which the clinical picture improved. Discussion: The fatty tissue enters the circulation when the venous drainage bed pressure is overcome by the pressure inside the bone marrow. The toxic free fatty acids cause vasogenic and cytotoxic edema, as well as hemorrhage by cell destruction. Conclusion: It is important to consider the presence of this complication in patients with multiple fractures and to offer timely treatment with the intention of reducing the sequelae associated with this condition.

Introdução. Embolia gordurosa é a obstrução dos vasos sanguíneos de diâmetro reduzido pelos lipídios produzidos durante a degradação tecidual. Ocorre em indivíduos com fraturas de ossos longos e é assintomática em mais de 90% dos casos. A síndrome da embolia gordurosa corresponde a um processo grave, pouco frequente na prática clínica, caracterizado pelo aparecimento de petéquias, dificuldade respiratória e alterações neurológicas. Relato de caso. Trata-se de uma mulher adulta jovem, com trauma de tórax fechado e múltiplas fraturas de ossos longos dos membros superiores e inferiores por politraumatismos de alta energia, que foi submetida a redução sob anestesia. Às 48 horas, ela começou a ter dificuldade em respirar, exantema petequial predominantemente sobre a parede torácica anterior e dano neurológico com convulsões tónico-clónicas e bilateral focal, que cedeu com uma medicação anticonvulsivante intra-venosa. Ela foi diagnosticada com síndrome de embolia gordurosa devido a uma história de trauma e às lesões evidenciadas na ressonância magnética. Ela recebeu suporte respiratório e terapia anticoa-gulante, com o qual o quadro clínico melhorou. Discussão. O tecido adiposo entra na circulação quando a pressão no leito da drenagem venosa é superada pela pressão na medula óssea. Os ácidos graxos livres tóxicos causam edema vasogênico e citotóxico, além de hemorragia por destruição celular. Conclusão. É importante considerar a presença dessa complicação em pacientes com múltiplas fraturas e fornecer tratamento oportuno com a intenção de reduzir as sequelas associadas a essa condição

Profilaxia da síndrome de embolia gordurosa: uma análise atual / Prophylaxis of fat embolism syndrome: a current analysis

INTRODUÇÃO: Analisar dados da internet relacionados a mortes por embolia gordurosa, inicio da doença, e outras informações podem determinar a realidade atual no Brasil relacionada à incidência da síndrome de embolia gordurosa e qualquer repercussão na mídia, e também revisar as metodologias de prevenção e quais são os melhores métodos disponíveis para tratar a doença. MÉTODOS: Uma pesquisa no google foi conduzida de Janeiro de 2000 a Janeiro de 2014 utilizando os descritores "cirurgia plástica" e "morte". Foram incluídos e revisados artigos contendo as palavras "embolia", "embolia gordurosa" e "complicações em (ou de) cirurgia plástica". RESULTADOS: Incluiu-se 235 matérias novas relevantes ao longo dos 14 anos. Houve 45 casos de óbito relacionados com cirurgia plástica que ofereceu poucos dados para individualização. Desses pacientes, 44 eram mulheres. As causas possíveis mencionadas foram embolia pulmonar (cinco casos), perfuração das vísceras (cinco casos), hipertermia maligna (três casos), anestesia (dois casos), choque anafilático (dois casos), embolia gordurosa (um caso confirmado), e "outros" (cinco casos). CONCLUSÃO: Diretrizes de prevenção para embolia gordurosa em cirurgia plástica são requeridas, porém, há também necessidade de mais estudos baseados em evidência para entender mais claramente quais são os melhores métodos.

INTRODUCTION: To analyze data from the internet on deaths from fat embolism, time of onset, and other information that could determine current reality in Brazil regarding fat embolism syndrome incidence and any ,media repercussions, and also to review methods of prevention and what are the best methods available to treat this disease. METHODS: A Google search was conducted from January 2000 to January 2014 using the keywords "plastic surgery" and "death." We included and reviewed articles containing the words "embolism", "fat embolism" and "complications in (or of) plastic surgery". RESULTS: We included 235 relevant news stories over the 14 included years. There were 45 cases of death related with plastic surgery that offered few data for individualization. Of these patients, 44 were women. Possible causes mentioned were pulmonary embolism (five cases), perforation of viscera (four cases), malignant hyperthermia (three cases), anesthesia (two cases), anaphylactic shock (two cases), fat embolism (one confirmed case), and "other" (five cases). CONCLUSION: Guidelines to prevent fat embolism in plastic surgery are needed, however, there is also the need of more evidence based studies to understand more clearly what methods are best.

Changes in expressions of lipoxin A4 and its receptor in rats with fat embolism syndrome / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To investigate the change in expressions of lipoxin A4 (LXA4) and lipoxin A4 receptor (ALX) in rats with fat embolism syndrome(FES).Metbods Sixty healthy male SD rats were assigned to control group and FES group which was subgrouped at l,6,12 and 24 h according to the random number table,with 12 rats each.Allogeneic perinephric fat (0.706 ml/kg) was injected to rat caudal veins in FES group.Instead isotonic saline in an equal volume was given to rats in control group.Lung samples were harvested from each group to detect pathological morphology,concentration of total protein and LXA4 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF),lung weight to dry ratio (W/D),and activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO) and ALX mRNA.Additional 40 SD rats were divided into control group,FES 24-hour group,BML-1 11 + FES 24-hour group,and Boc-2 + FES 24-hour group according to the random number table,with 10 rats each.Pathology of lung tissue was observed using microscopy and expression of lung MPO mRNA was detected.Results Lung tissues in FES group were seriously injured compared with control group.Total protein concentration in BALF was (71.12 ± 11.05) μg/ml in FES 12-hour group,significantly increased compared to (29.82 ± 0.64) μg/ml in control group (P ＜ 0.05).LXA4 concentration in BALF was (2.72 ± 0.24) ng/ml in FES 24-hour group,significantly higher than (0.69 ±0.05)ng/ml in control group (P ＜ 0.05).Lung W/D value was 9.13 ±0.83 and 9.60 ±0.86 respectively in FES 6-hour and 12-hour groups,higher than 3.09 ±0.10 in control group (P ＜0.05).Activity of MPO in lung tissue was (0.74± 0.07)U/g and (0.53 ±0.08)U/g respectively in FES 6-hour and 12-hour groups,significantly higher than (0.19 ± 0.03) U/g in control group (P ＜ 0.05).Expression of ALX mRNA was 3.99 ± 1.09 in FES 24-hour group,significantly higher than 1.00 ±0.21 in control group (P ＜0.05).Expression of MPO mRNA was lower in BML-111 + FES 24-hour group (0.69-0.08) and was higher in Boc-2 + FES 24-hour group (2.05-0.14),when compared to 1.52 ±-0.07 in FES 24-hour group (P＜0.05).Conclusion LXA4 mainly involves in the resolution of inflammation in FES rats,which may be achieved at least in part by binding to ALX.

A Case of Acute Fulminant Fat Embolism Syndrome after Liposuction Surgery / 결핵및호흡기질환

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a clinical manifestation that consists of multiple organ dysfunction due to fat emboli. FES occurs as a complication after trauma or procedures such as surgery. The diagnostic criteria of FES have not yet been established, so clinical criteria are used for its diagnosis. The clinical course of acute fulminant FES can be rapid. Liposuction surgery, in which adipocytes are mechanically disrupted, is one cause of FES. As the number of liposuction surgeries increases, clinicians should be aware of the possibility of FES. This was the first report of a case of acute fulminant FES with severe acute respiratory distress syndrome after liposuction surgery, in Korea.

Embolia gordurosa encefálica / Cerebral fat embolism

A embolia gordurosa é constituída pela presença de glóbulos de gordura dentro da microcirculação periférica e pulmonar, com ou sem quadro clínico. Há uma fase precoce, representada por uma obstrução mecânica, e uma fase tardia, representada por um fenômeno inflamatório, que se inicia aproximadamente 48 a 72 horas após a obstrução mecânica. O diagnóstico clínico da síndrome de embolia gordurosa pode ser auxiliado pelos critérios de Gurd-Wilson e deve ser suspeitado em doentes com traumatismo e fraturas de ossos longos e deterioração neurológica de forma inexplicada. É necessário no mínimo um critério maior (insuficiência respiratória, sinais neurológicos não relacionados ao traumatismo craniano e manifestações dermatológicas) e quatro menores ou dois maiores. Exames complementares são geralmente inespecíficos. A tomografia de crânio pode estar normal. A ressonância magnética de encéfalo pode mostrar áreas puntiformes que costumam desaparecer em 20 dias, sugerindo que a lesão pode ser predominantemente inflamatória, e não necrótico-isquêmica. Um tratamento específico para a síndrome de embolia gordurosa não existe. Ele consiste no suporte cardiopulmonar e neurológico, além de prevenção e diagnóstico precoce, auxiliando nos cuidados com o doente.

Fat embolism is constituted by the presence of fat globules in the peripheral microcirculation and lung with or without symptoms. There is an early stage, represented by a mechanical obstruction, and a late phase, represented by an inflammatory process, which begins approximately 48-72 hours after the mechanical obstruction. The clinical diagnosis of the syndrome of fat embolism can be aided by the criteria of Gurd-Wilson, and must be suspected in patients with trauma and long bone fractures and unexplained neurological deterioration. It is necessary at least one major criteria (respiratory failure, neurological signs unrelated to head trauma and skin lesions) and four small or two larger ones. Additional tests are usually nonspecific. CT scan may be normal. MRI may show punctate areas that usually disappear in 20 days, suggesting that the inflammatory lesion may be predominantly necrotic and non-ischemic. Specific treatment for fat embolism syndrome does not exist. It is the neurological and cardiopulmonary support, and prevention and early diagnosis, assisting in patient care.

Transposition of Intravascular Lipid in Experimentally Induced Fat Embolism: A Preliminary Study

BACKGROUND: Liposuction is a procedure to reduce the volume of subcutaneous fat by physical force. Intracellular storage fat is composed of triglyceride, whereas circulating fat particles exist as cholesterol or triglycerol bound to carrier proteins. It is unavoidable that the storage form of fat particles enters the circulation system after these particles are physiologically destroyed. To date, however, no studies have clarified the fatal characteristics of fat embolism that occurs after the subclinical phase of free fat particles. METHODS: A mixture of human lipoaspirate and normal saline (1:100, 0.2 mL) was injected into the external jugular vein of rats, weighing 200 g on average. Biopsy specimens of the lung and kidney were examined at 12-hour intervals until postoperative 72 hours. The deposit location and transport of the injected free fat particles were confirmed histologically by an Oil Red O stain. RESULTS: Inconsistent with previous reports, free fat particles were transported from the intravascular space to the parenchyma. At 24 hours after infusion, free fat particles deposited in the vascular lumen were confirmed on the Oil Red O stain. At 72 hours after infusion, free fat particles were accumulated compactly within the parenchymal space near the perivascular area. CONCLUSIONS: Many surgeons are aware of the fatal results and undiscovered pathophysiologic mechanisms of free fat particles. Our results indicate that free fat particles, the storage form of fat that has been degraded through a physiological process, might be removed through a direct transport mechanism and phagocytotic uptake.

Changes and significance of aquaporin 4 expression in mice models of fat embolism syndrome / 中华创伤杂志

Objective To investigate the role of aquaporin 4 (AQP4) in partial pathologic process of lung injury in rat models of fat embolism syndrome (FES).Methods A total of 120 healthy male C57BL/6J mice were assigned to control group and FES group which was subgrouped at 4,6,12,24,and 48 hours with 20 mice per group,according to the random number table.Allogeneic perinephric fat was injected to rat caudal veins in FES groups.Lung samples were harvested from each group to examine pathological morphology and lung weight to dry ratio (W/D) to verify the FES models and observe the pathologic process.Expression of AQP4 was detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry.Additional 36 C57BL/6J mice were divided into control group,DMSO group,FES 12-hour group,and AQP4 inhibitor group according to the random number table,with 9 mice per group.Pathologic process of FES-induced lung injury was detected after the inhibition of AQP4.Results Damage to lung tissues was notable in FES group compared with control group.Lung W/D value was 5.06 ± 1.23,5.22 ± 1.58,6.18 ± 1.65,and 5.07 ± 0.31 at 6,12,24,and 48 hours respectively,which was higher than 3.16 ± 1.58 in control group (F =3.62,P ＜ 0.05).Expression of AQP4 was 1.71 ± 1.05 at 12 hours and 1.28 ± 0.68 at 24 hours in FES group,which showed significantly increase when compared with 0.65 ±0.08 in control group (F =4.12,P ＜0.01),whereas at 4 hours (0.76 ± 0.36),6 hours (1.17 ± 0.60),and 48 hours (0.85 ±0.45) in FES group,no statistical difference was observed when compared to control group.W/D value in FES 12-hour group (5.22 ± 1.17),DMSO group (4.96 ±1.66),and AQP4 inhibitor group (3.25 ± 1.19) was higher than 3.03 ± 1.68 in control group (F =3.69,P ＜ 0.05).Meanwhile,there was no statistical difference between DMSO and FES 12-hour groups,but significantly lowered W/D value was observed in AQP4 inhibitor group than in FES 12-hour group.Conclusion AQP4 may be implicated in mitigating lung injury induced by FES.

Uso de corticoide na profilaxia para síndrome de embolia gordurosa em pacientes com fratura de osso longo / The use of corticosteroid for the prophylaxis of fat embolism syndrome in patients with long bone fracture

A reunião de revista "Telemedicina Baseada em Evidência - Cirurgia do Trauma e Emergência" (TBE-CiTE) realizou uma revisão crítica da literatura e selecionou três artigos recentes sobre o uso de corticoide para a profilaxia da síndrome de embolia gordurosa. O foco desta revisão foi a indicação ou não do uso de corticoide nos pacientes admitidos na unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) com risco de desenvolverem embolia gordurosa pós traumática. O primeiro artigo foi um estudo prospectivo com o objetivo de estabelecer fatores preditivos confiáveis, precoces e úteis associados ao aparecimento da síndrome da embolia gordurosa (SEG) em pacientes traumatizados. O segundo artigo foi uma revisão de literatura sobre o papel do corticoide como medida profilática à síndrome de embolia gordurosa. O último artigo foi uma meta-análise sobre a capacidade do corticoide em reduzir o risco de síndrome da embolia gordurosa nos pacientes com fraturas de ossos longos. As principais conclusões e recomendações foram que pacientes traumatizados devem ser monitorizados na UTI com oximetria de pulso e medida do lactato já que estes fatores podem predizer o aparecimento de SEG e que não existe evidência suficiente para recomendar o uso de corticoide para a profilaxia desta síndrome.

The "Evidence-based Telemedicine - Trauma & Acute Care Surgery" (EBT-TACS) Journal Club conducted a critical review of the literature and selected three recent studies on the use of corticosteroids for the prophylaxis of fat embolism syndrome. The review focused on the potential role of corticosteroids administration to patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) at risk of developing post-traumatic fat embolism. The first study was prospective and aimed at identifying reliable predictors, which occurred early and were associated with the onset of fat embolism syndrome in trauma patients. The second manuscript was a literature review of the role of corticosteroids as a prophylactic measure for fat embolism syndrome (FES). The last manuscript was a meta-analysis on the potential for corticosteroids to prophylactically reduce the risk of fat embolism syndrome in patients with long bone fractures. The main conclusions and recommendations reached were that traumatized patients should be monitored with non-invasive pulse oximetry and lactate levels since these factors may predict the development of FES, and that there is not enough evidence to recommend the use of steroids for the prophylaxis of this syndrome.

Fat embolism in liposuction and intramuscular grafts in rabbits / Embolia gordurosa na lipoaspiração e enxertia intramuscular em coelhos

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of fat embolism in organs such as lung and liver. METHODS: Twenty rabbits underwent autologous intramuscular fat grafting in the right thigh after liposuction. The groups were determined according to the postoperative day that occurred in euthanasia: 60, 90 and 120 day. Then, lung and liver were excised and sent to the histopathology laboratory for analysis in search of late injury secondary to a prior event of fat embolism in the tissues. RESULTS: The results showed a change in the macroscopic sample with discoloration of the liver tissue heterogeneously. There were no changes consistent with embolic effect under the microscope. CONCLUSION: The option of performing a technique of fat grafting with a less traumatic surgical procedure can be considered protective against embolic events, with no impact to late embolic events on the tissues.

OBJETIVO: Avaliar a repercussão da embolia gordurosa em órgãos como pulmão e fígado. MÉTODOS: Vinte coelhos foram submetidos à enxertia autóloga intramuscular de gordura em coxa direita após lipoaspiração. Os grupos foram determinados conforme os dias pós-operatórios (DPO) em que ocorreu a eutanásia: 60 DPO, 90DPO, 120 DPO. Em seguida, o pulmão e o fígado foram ressecados e encaminhados ao laboratório de histopatologia para análise em busca de lesão tardia secundária a evento de embolia gordurosa prévia nos tecidos. RESULTADOS: Foi evidenciada uma alteração na amostra a analise macroscópica com alteração da coloração do tecido hepático de forma heterogênea. Não houve alterações compatíveis com repercussão de processo embólico à microscopia. CONCLUSÃO: A opção pela realização de uma técnica de lipoenxertia menos traumática e com pequeno tempo cirúrgico pode ser considerada protetora para eventos embólicos, não havendo repercussão embólica a tardiamente.

Dynamic monitoring of fat emboli on transesophageal echocardiogram during total knee arthroplasty / 中华超声影像学杂志

Objective To detect fat emboli in cardiac chamber of the patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty(TKA) by transesophageal echocardiography(TEE), and to discuss the relevant clinical value.Methods Eleven female patients with 12 osteoarthritis(OA) knees were underwent TKA. According to whether using tourniquet or not,12 knees were divided into 2 groups at random:tourniquet-related group (6 knees) and control group(6 knees). Echo intensity and ultrasonic characteristics of fat emboli in cardiac chamber were studied dynamically by multiplane TEE in various periods of the whole operation. Results All of the patients were implanted knee prostheses successfully. In different periods of TKA, fat emboli appeared as isoechoic or hyperechoic particles, which were found in right atrium, but nothing could be found in left heart. The imaging of the particles was flowing with duration time of 10～600s, like dots, lines, "moving star" or "shower". While femur expanding(0～3mins),the particles in right atrium and ventricle became more and more, and the echo intensity became significantly higher than those in other periods. After releasing tourniquet(0～5mins),most particles with highest echo intensity were observed in right heart,showing like "snowstorm" in tourniquet-related group, and more emboli were still detected at the end of monitoring (10 min after releasing tourniquet) by TEE,compared to the control group. No patient suffered from fat embolism syndrome(FES) with clinical manifestation. Conclusions Fat emboli in cardiac chamber can be observed sensitively by real-time TEE dynamically during TKA. It should be encouraged and promoted to analyze ultrasonic characteristics to facilitate the early detection, early diagnosis and early clinical intervention for the subclinical type of FES.

Role of the PLA2-Activated Neutrophilic Oxidative Stress in Oleic Acid-Induced Acute Lung Injury / 결핵및호흡기질환

BACKGROUND: The underlying pathogenesis of fat embolism-induced acute lung injury (ALI) has not been elucidated. In the present study, the pathogenesis of fat embolism-induced ALI was probed in association with neutrophilic oxidative stress in oleic acid (OA)-induced ALI of S-D rats. METHODS: OA was injected intravenously to provoke ALI in experimental rats. Five hours later, indices of ALI were measured to confirm the role of the neutrophilic respiratory burst. The effect of an inhibition of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) was also evaluated. RESULTS: The accumulation of neutrophils in the lung due to OA caused increased neutrophilic oxidative stress in lung, which was ameliorated by mepacrine. What were the results from inhibition of PLA2. CONCLUSION: Excess neutrophilic oxidative stress contributes to OA-induced ALI, which is lessened by the inhibition of PLA2.