Fat embolism as a complication of closed femoral shortening.

Although closed femoral osteotomy for shortening or correction of deformity is not a new procedure, its popularity apparently is increasing. We have encountered a serious "biological" complication that should be considered before this technique is selected. Two patients, a 12-year-old girl and an 18-year-old man, developed findings consistent with the fat embolism syndrome after closed femoral shortening. We suggest consideration of postoperative monitoring with pulse oximetry of patients undergoing this procedure.