The fat embolism syndrome is a moderately rare, often fatal, complication of trauma injuries, especially those involving long-bone fractures. The syndrome is a complex of cardiac, respiratory, and neurological symptoms that can initially present in ways that make diagnosis difficult or mimic other disorders. This article reviews the syndrome's pathophysiology, diagnostic signs, clinical manifestations, preventive and supportive measures, and the problems associated with anesthetic management of patients with the syndrome.
