Fat embolism as a complication of closed femoral shortening.
Although closed femoral osteotomy for shortening or correction of deformity is not a new procedure, its popularity apparently is increasing. We have encountered a serious "biological" complication that should be considered before this technique is selected. Two patients, a 12-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man, developed findings consistent with the fat embolism syndrome after closed femoral shortening. We suggest consideration of postoperative monitoring with pulse oximetry of patients undergoing this procedure.
Edwards
K J
KJ
Nemours Children's Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida 32247.
Cummings
R J
RJ
D000293:Adolescent; D002648:Child; D004620:Embolism, Fat / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D005269:Femur / Q000601:surgery; D005594:Fracture Fixation, Intramedullary / Q000009:adverse effects*; D006801:Humans; D007870:Leg Length Inequality / Q000601:surgery*; D008297:Male; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D011655:Pulmonary Embolism / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology; D011859:Radiography