Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a life-threatening complication that occurs when fat globules from fractured bone marrow (especially long bones like the femur) enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs, brain, and skin, occluding small blood vessels. The classic triad includes respiratory distress (fat emboli in pulmonary vasculature), neurological changes (fat emboli in cerebral vessels), and petechial rash (fat emboli in dermal capillaries). FES typically develops 24-72 hours after a long bone fracture. The nurse must monitor respiratory and neurological status closely and report any changes immediately.