Fatal fat embolism in isolated vertebral compression fracture.

Authors :: Lastra RR
Saldanha V
Balasubramanian M
Handal J
Lastra, Ricardo R
Saldanha, Vilas
Balasubramanian, Manjula
Handal, John
Source :: European Spine Journal. Jul2010, Vol. 19 Issue 7, pS200-2. 1p.
Publication Year :: 2010
Abstract: Fat embolism after long bone and pelvic fractures as well as orthopedic interventions is a well-documented phenomenon, but it is highly unusual after isolated vertebral fractures. We report a case of fatal fat embolism in a 78-year-old man after an isolated vertebral compression fracture with no related orthopedic intervention. A high index of suspicion is necessary for early diagnosis and successfully treating this unusual complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]