Fat embolism syndrome in a surgical patient.

Fat embolism syndrome, a condition characterized by hypoxia, bilateral pulmonary infiltrates, and mental status change, is commonly thought of in association with long-bone trauma. Fat embolization can frequently take place, however, within the setting of elective and semiacute orthopedic procedures. In particular, there is a high incidence of fat embolization during placement of hip prostheses. Although studies suggest that embolization events infrequently result in a clinically apparent fat embolism syndrome, clinicians should be vigilant in considering fat embolism syndrome as a causative agent of postoperative respiratory distress.