Which group of patients is at higher risk for fat embolism syndrome (FES)?

Fat embolism syndrome (FES) is a serious condition that can occur after the fracture of long bones or other trauma, particularly in certain populations. The correct option highlights older adults, specifically those aged 70 or older, who often sustain hip or pelvis fractures.

This population is particularly vulnerable due to several factors:

1. Age-related bone fragility: Older adults frequently experience osteoporosis, making their bones more susceptible to fractures. When these fractures occur, there is an increased risk of releasing fat globules into the bloodstream from the bone marrow.

2. Type of injury: Hip and pelvis fractures are common in this age group, and these specific fractures have been strongly associated with the development of FES. The mechanism is believed to involve the mobilization of adipose (fat) tissue during the trauma or repair process.

3. Physiological factors: Aging can alter the body’s ability to handle fat globules in the circulation, further increasing the risk of FES.

In contrast, the other groups—teenagers with sports injuries, children with broken bones, and young adults after surgery—are generally at lower risk for FES due to lesser prevalence of osteoporosis and different injury patterns that do not typically include significant