Pulmonary Fat EmbolismA Prospective Study within the Forensic Autopsy Collective of the Republic of Iceland

• NCJ Number: 243689
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: S 1 Dated: January 2013 Pages: S 105-S 111
• Author(s): Matthias X. Voisard, M.D.; Wolf Schweitzer, M.D.; Christian Jackowski, M.D.
• Date Published: January 2013
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study focused on determining a possible influence of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), in the context of an aging population, on the occurrence of pulmonary fat embolism (PFE).

Abstract

In the last century, studies established the origin of pulmonary fat embolism (PFE) and identified mechanical trauma as main source for PFE. This prospective study focused on determining a possible influence of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), in the context of an aging population, on the occurrence of PFE. Lung tissue samples from 256 bodies were examined using the twin-edged knife technique without preliminary fixation but after staining with Sudan III. PFE grading was determined according to Falzi and performed at a 10 magnification. For statistical analysis, bodies were grouped by age, gender, and putrefaction and categorized following whether they had experienced trauma, CPR, the combination of both, or no mechanical impact. There was a significant correlation of trauma, CPR, and the combination of both to PFE but no noticeable influence of gender or putrefaction. An age over 70 years promotes a PFE due to resuscitation. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.