Trans-tracheal ventilation complicated by bilateral pneumothoraces and pneumoperitoneum.

Following induction of general anaesthesia for emergency caesarean section the trachea could not be intubated, and ventilation was established only following two cricothyroidotomies. The baby was delivered unimpaired, and tracheostomy subsequently performed. On the intensive care unit, maternal cardiorespiratory variables were satisfactory, although surgical emphysema of the face and neck became apparent.

The pathogenesis of fat embolism.

Fat embolism is a common autopsy finding in patients with or without a history of trauma. There are two basic mechanisms causing fat to embolize. Depot-derived fat embolism arises by disruption of depot fat, usually as a result of trauma, allowing direct entry into the bloodstream.