Case Reports

Fat Embolism Syndrome in an Adolescent Before Surgical Treatment of an Isolated Closed Tibial Shaft Fracture

Author and Disclosure Information

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) occurs most commonly in adults with high-energy trauma, especially fractures of the long-bones and pelvis. Because of unique age-related physiologic differences in the immature skeleton, as well as differences in fracture management in pediatric patients, FES is rare in children. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of FES occurring before surgical fixation of a closed tibial shaft fracture in an adolescent.

A 16-year-old, 109 kg, Caucasian adolescent boy developed FES after closed diaphyseal fractures of the distal tibia and fibula, showing signs of respiratory distress and mental status changes.

The FES resolved with supportive respiratory care and intramedullary nailing of the fracture was done without further respiratory compromise.

FES is uncommon in children and adolescents. A high index of suspicion is required to make the diagnosis promptly and institute appropriate treatment. Intramedullary nailing of a long-bone fracture can be done safely and successfully after resolution of the FES.


 

Recommended Reading

Expanding School-Based Health Centers
MDedge Pediatrics
FEBSTAT Study Hints at Predictors of Epilepsy
MDedge Pediatrics
Pertussis Vaccine Loses Efficacy Each Year After Fifth Dose
MDedge Pediatrics
African American Girls and Obesity
MDedge Pediatrics
Family-Focused Therapy May Help Resistant Pediatric OCD
MDedge Pediatrics
Cold weather and diarrhea: Don't forget yersiniosis
MDedge Pediatrics
Youth Account for Quarter of New HIV Infections
MDedge Pediatrics
Acne 101: Educate Patients Before Topical Therapy
MDedge Pediatrics
Attention Retraining Enhances CBT for Adolescent Anxiety
MDedge Pediatrics
Pediatric cardiologist: Routine ECGs unnecessary for kids on ADHD meds
MDedge Pediatrics