Fat embolism following fat grafting: A systematic review of reported cases

This systematic review aims to consolidate and analyze reported cases of fat embolism following fat grafting, focusing on patient demographics, procedural characteristics, clinical features, diagnostic methods, management strategies, and outcomes.

A systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane, Embase, MEDLINE, and Scopus, up to January 31, 2024. Inclusion criteria encompassed case presentations diagnosing fat embolism or fat embolism syndrome post-fat grafting in patients over the age of 18 years. Data were extracted using EndNote® X21.

From 1051 identified studies, 71 met inclusion criteria, encompassing 137 patients. The mean patient age was 36.22 years, with 90.5 % being female. Liposuction was the predominant fat harvesting method. Ocular signs were the most common presentation (50.8 %), followed by neurological (42.2 %) and cardiopulmonary (32.0 %) symptoms. Diagnostic methods varied, including imaging and histopathology. Supportive care was the primary management strategy. The overall mortality rate was 34.3 %, with 88.6 % of survivors experiencing permanent sequelae.

This study acknowledges several limitations in evidence, including heterogeneity, recall bias, language limitations, and potential publication bias due to studies with worse outcomes. Fat embolism following fat grafting, though rare, can lead to significant morbidity and mortality. Early recognition and prompt management are crucial. This review highlights the need for standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols to improve patient outcomes in fat grafting procedures.

This study received no external funding and was previously registered with the Prospective International Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO).