fat embolism

fat embolism

a respiratory distress syndrome that can occur during long bone fractures that result from the release of bone marrow elements into the circulatory system that accumulate in the lungs to affect gas exchange adversely. See: bone marrow embolism.

Synonym(s): oil embolism

Farlex Partner Medical Dictionary © Farlex 2012

fat embolism

An embolus containing fat, an event that follows long bone fractures, and less commonly, hepatic trauma; embolic fat 'metastasizes' to the lungs, causing dyspnea, shock, to the brain causing coma, to the kidneys causing lipiduria. See Embolism.

McGraw-Hill Concise Dictionary of Modern Medicine. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

fat em·bo·lism

(fat em'bŏ-lizm)

The occurrence of fat globules in the circulation following fractures of a long bone, in burns, in parturition, and in association with fatty degeneration of the liver; the emboli most commonly block pulmonary or cerebral vessels when symptoms referable to either or both of these regions appear.

Medical Dictionary for the Health Professions and Nursing © Farlex 2012

fat embolism

The release of fat into the blood and its movement with the circulation to a point where blockage of small arteries occurs. Fat embolism usually follows fractures of long bones. Obstruction of vital arteries such as those in the brain, the lungs or in the coronary arteries of the heart is a serious complication. The acidic products of fat breakdown can also cause permanent damage to the linings of the arteries.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005

fat em·bo·lism

(fat em'bŏ-lizm)

The occurrence of fat globules in the circulation following fractures of a long bone, in burns, in parturition, and in association with fatty degeneration of the liver.

Medical Dictionary for the Dental Professions © Farlex 2012