Imaging findings of cerebral fat embolism

Abstract

Cerebral fat embolism (CFE) is a rare complication of long bone or pelvic fractures. The diagnosis is difficult because of non-specific signs and symptoms occurring in conjunction with the features of traumatic injury, where imaging is often deferred in view of unstable vitals. We present two cases of CFE occurring post-internal fixation of femur fracture in young- and middle-aged adult males in early and late subacute stages, respectively; one patient had associated hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. It is important for radiologists to know the variable appearance on imaging to make a timely diagnosis.