Title: Prognostic Determinants of Post Traumatic Fat Embolism Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study in a Moroccan Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Ahmed Azzabi Zouraq MD; Oussama Skouri MD; Ali Derkaoui MD, PhD; Shimi Abdelkarim MD, PhD; Bechri Ibrahim MD, PhD; Khatouf Mohammed MD, PhD
Volume: 10
Issue: 6
Pages: 60-61
Publication Date: 2026/06/28
Abstract:
Background: Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a rare but potentially life threatening complication of long bone fractures. While its pathophysiology has been widely described, prognostic determinants among critically ill patients remain incompletely defined. Objective: To identify clinical, physiological, and therapeutic predictors of mortality in patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU) with post traumatic FES. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study including 20 consecutive patients diagnosed with FES according to Gurd criteria between January 2021 and May 2025. Demographic variables, trauma characteristics, latency period, respiratory and hemodynamic parameters, laboratory findings, therapeutic interventions, and outcomes were analyzed. Survivors and non survivors were compared using Student t test and Chi square test. Results: Overall mortality was 20 percent. Advanced age (p = 0.013), comorbidities (p = 0.013), delayed initial management (p = 0.013), short latent period (p = 0.013), development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) (p = 0.032), and mean arterial pressure less than or equal to 65 mmHg (p = 0.032) were significantly associated with mortality. Conclusion: Mortality in FES appears primarily driven by patient vulnerability, early fulminant presentation, respiratory failure severity, and circulatory instability. Early recognition and aggressive supportive management remain crucial.