A 25-year-old motorcyclist has a closed femoral shaft fracture. What is the most serious early systemic complication?
Answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Fat embolism
- Step 1: Fat embolism causes hypoxia, petechiae and confusion within 48 hours of long bone fracture. Answer: Fat embolism. Why not the others: Compartment syndrome of the arm, Osteomyelitis and Malunion don't fit.
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