Combination effect of intraoperative and postoperative intravenous tranexamic acid in hip hemiarthroplasty. A propensity score matched analysis

BackgroundTranexamic acid (TXA) has been proven to reduce perioperative blood loss and the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion in total joint arthroplasty (TJA). However, there is limited literature on the use of TXA in patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty. Furthermore, combination effect of intraoperative and postoperative intravenous TXA has not been investigated extensively. The purpose of this study was to evaluate this combination effect on hip hemiarthroplasty by a propensity score matched analysis (PSMA).MethodsThis is a retrospective cohort study involving hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture. All patients received 1g intraoperative intravenous TXA. One group also received 1g intravenous TXA 6h after surgery, while the other group did not. Perioperative blood loss, the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion and venous thromboembolism (VTE) were collected and compared.Results209 patients who underwent unilateral hip hemiarthroplasty were included. PSMA resulted in 66 matched pairs in each group. There were no significant differences in perioperative blood loss on postoperative day (POD) # 1, 3, 5 (637.2 ± 285.9 versus 653.6 ± 305.5, 726.6 ± 274.2 versus 676.3 ± 313.2, 795.5 ± 291.2 versus 759.9 ± 328.4), the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion (9.1% versus 12.1%) and VTE (1.5% versus 1.5%) between the two groups (P value> 05) for up to one year.ConclusionIntraoperative and postoperative intravenous TXA have no combination effect on reducing perioperative blood loss, the incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion and VTE in patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty.     

Blood loss and perioperative transfusions related to surgery for spinal tumors. Relevance of tranexamic acid

IntroductionTranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to reduce bleeding. Patients with spinal tumors are fragile and acute anemia may be harmful. Tumor excision surgery is reputed to be hemorrhagic and treatment may increase thromboembolic complications. The aim of this study was to compare blood loss with or without perioperative TXA injection. The transfusion-related and postoperative complications were documents.MethodThis retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data involved 83 patients with spinal tumors who underwent decompressive surgery associated with bone fixation. Tranexamic acid was used arbitrarily in 36 of them, while the other 47 did not receive TXA. The overall, intraoperative and postoperative blood loss was recorded. Blood loss was reported relative to the number of fixed levels and the number of levels decompressed by laminectomy. Transfusions were quantified in number of red blood cell packets and erythrocyte volume. Postoperative complications were documented.ResultsEpidemiological and morphological data were similar between groups. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the overall, intraoperative, and postoperative blood loss. A significant reduction in postoperative bleeding was found in the TXA group when the volume was related to the number of decompressed levels. A significant reduction (P < 0.05) in the volume of transfused blood was identified in the treated group. No predictor of blood loss was identified, and no additional complications occurred.ConclusionThe efficacy of TXA appears to be moderate during spinal tumor surgery since it does not lead to a reduction in perioperative bleeding. However, a significant reduction in transfusion volume was found without an increase in complications.     

Topical administration of tranexamic acid in elderly patients undergoing short femoral nailing for intertrochanteric fracture: A randomised controlled trial

IntroductionTopical application of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been proposed as an alternative to intravenous administration to reduce perioperative bleeding in orthopaedic surgery. The purpose of this randomised controlled trial was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 1 g topically applied TXA in patients undergoing fixation of intertrochanteric hip fractures by short femoral nailing.MethodsA total of 121 patients were enrolled between May 2018 and January 2020. Patients were randomly allocated (1:1) to receive either 10 mL (1 g) of TXA or 10 mL of normal saline (NS) injected through the subfascial drain following wound closure. Total blood loss, total drain output and blood transfusion requirements up to postoperative day 3 were recorded. Rates of thromboembolic complications and mortality up to 90 days postoperatively were also compared.ResultsThere was no statistically significant difference in total blood loss, total drain output or proportion of patients requiring transfusions. Median total blood loss was 1.088 L (IQR: 0.760–1.795) in the TXA group and 1.078 L (IQR: 0.797–1.722) in the NS group (P = .703). Median total drain output was 60 mL (IQR: 40–140) in the TXA group and 70 mL (IQR: 30–168) in the NS group (P = .696). Blood transfusions were administered in 29 patients (47.5%) in the TXA group and 27 patients (45.0%) in the NS group (P = .782). There was also no difference in frequency of thrombotic complications or mortality within 90 days. There were five thrombotic events in the TXA group and four in the NS group (P = .751). The 90-day mortality rate was 6.6% (4 patients) in the TXA group and 3.3% (2 patients) in the NS group (P = .680).ConclusionA 1 g dose of topically administered TXA did not produce any difference in blood loss, transfusion requirements, thromboembolic complications, or 90-day mortality. Future trials may consider the effect of larger doses in patients undergoing hip fracture fixation surgery.     

The efficacy of intravenous tranexamic acid administration at induction in definitive hip fracture surgery: Is there a role?

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a cheap and powerful drug that has several uses in surgery and is well established in elective orthopaedic surgery. At present, limited small studies have looked into its role in the acute hip fracture. Transfusion in the geriatric population presents risks and increased costs to healthcare systems around the world. Our retrospective study looks at the role of TXA administration at induction for both intracapsular fracture requiring hemiarthroplasty and our preferred method of fixation of extracapsular fracture by intramedullary nail (IM nail). We show a statistically significant reduction in the number of patients requiring transfusion as well as mean haemoglobin (Hb) drop in those undergoing hemiarthroplasty. This was not replicated in those undergoing IM nail fixation. Both groups showed no increase in 1-year mortality or thromboembolic events following TXA administration. These results support the use of TXA for hemiarthroplasty for intracapsular hip fractures over the age of 60.OBJECTIVES: The aim of this pre and post interventional study looks at the effects of intravenous administration of tranexamic acid on induction for elderly patients undergoing hemiarthroplasty or intramedullary nail fixation for hip fractures.DESIGN: Pre and post interventional, randomised observational studySETTING: Large hip fracture unit, Level 2 Trauma Centre, single centrePATIENTS: Two arms of the study looking at those aged above the age of 60 undergoing hemiarthroplasty and intramedullary nail fixation without and with tranexamic acid on induction.RESULTS: 12.1% of hemiarthroplasties required post-operative transfusion without tranexamic acid compared to 2.6% of those with tranexamic acid (n=15 vs n=3 respectively, p=0.006). Equally, the mean Hb drop in g/L is reduced in those with tranexamic acid compared to those without (mean Hb = 14.6 vs 17.7 respectively, p=0.034). This was not replicated in the IM nail group between those without and those with tranexamic acid (n=31 vs n=20 respectively, p= 0.16). The mean Hb drop in g/L was not statistically significant in the tranexamic acid arm compared to without (mean Hb = 19.2 vs mean Hb = 21.9, p=0.11). Gross reporting of thromboembolic events did not demonstrate an increase in the number of those with DVT, PE, MI or stroke. 1-year mortality was not statistically significant in either hemiarthroplasty or IM nail fixation following tranexamic acid administration.CONCLUSIONS: Tranexamic acid both statistically significantly reduces the number of patients requiring transfusion post hemiarthroplasty and also the value of mean Hb drop without appearing to increase in thromboembolic events or 1 year mortality rates. This does not appear to be emulated in the IM nail fixation although both thrombotic events and 1-year mortality rates are also not affected by administration of TXA. We propose that TXA has a role in hemiarthroplasty surgery in reducing post-operative transfusions.LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 3 – retrospective cohort study.     

Tranexamic acid in non-elective primary total hip arthroplasty

PurposeBlood loss during and following elective total hip arthroplasty (THA) can be substantial and may require allogeneic blood transfusions which carries significant risks and morbidity for patients. Intraoperative use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been proven to reduce the need for allogeneic blood transfusion in elective THA patients. Data regarding TXA efficacy in reducing blood loss in trauma patients undergoing non-elective primary THA is sparse, and its routine use is not well established.MethodsThis is a retrospective analysis of a consecutive cohort of patients who underwent non-elective primary THA in a tertiary medical center between January 1st 2011- December 31st 2019. The cohort was divided into two groups; one received perioperative TXA treatment while the other did not. Blood loss, blood product administration, peri and postoperative complications, readmissions and 1-year mortality were compared between groups.ResultsA total of 419 patients (146 males, 273 females) who underwent THA were included in this study. The "TXA" group consisted 315 patients compared to 104 patients in the "no TXA" group. TXA use reduced postoperative bleeding, as indicated by changes in hemoglobin levels before and after surgery (ΔHb= -2.75 gr/dL vs. ΔHb= -3.34 gr/dL, p<0.001) and by administration of allogeneic blood transfusions (7.0% vs. 16.3%, p = 0.004).ConclusionSimilar to the known effect of TXA in elective THA patients, the use of TXA treatment in patients undergoing non-elective THA led to a significant reduction in postoperative blood loss and in the proportion of patients requiring allogeneic blood transfusions.     

Hematological profile and transfusion requirement during hysteroscopic myomectomy: A comparative study between oxytocin and tranexamic acid infusion

BackgroundOxytocin is uterotonic drug reducing uterine blood loss. Tranexamic acid reduce blood loss in various settings. Data on their efficacy are limited in gynecological hysteroscopy. This study was conducted to compare the effect of oxytocin versus tranexamic acid on hematological profile and transfusion requirement during hysteroscopic myomectomy (HM).MethodsFifty women scheduled for HM were randomly assigned into two groups. Ttranexamic acid (TXA) or oxytocin (OXY). TXA was injected with 15 mg kg^?1 of tranexamic acid, followed by infusion of 10 mg kg^?1 h^?1. In OXY, 10 Unites of oxytocin were added to 500 mL saline (400 mU/min) during surgery. Spinal anesthesia was induced for all patients. Hemodynamics, hematological data, number of transfusions, serum sodium and central venous pressure were measured.ResultsTXA showed significant decrease of heart rate 30 and 45 min and 1 and 2 h when compared with OXY. Post operative Hb and Hct showed significant decrease (p < 0.001) in TXA compared with OXY. CVP in TXA displayed significant increase (p < 0.001) 15 min after spinal blockade and 30 min, 45 min, 1 h and 2 h. Serum sodium showed significant decrease in TXA (p < 0.001) compared with OXY nearly throughout study period.ConclusionUse of oxytocin during HM was accompanied with stable hemodynamics, hematological profile and less transfusion requirement compared with the use of tranexamic acid.     

Effect of single dose intravenous tranexamic acid on blood loss in tangential excision of burn wounds — A double blind randomised controlled trial

IntroductionThis study was carried out to evaluate role of intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss during tangential excision of burns.MethodsThis was a single center, prospective double-blinded parallel arm superiority randomized placebo-controlled trial. Patients (15?55 years) with deep dermal thermal burns <30% undergoing tangential excision were randomly assigned (1:1) to TXA and placebo groups. Patients in TXA and placebo groups received injection TXA 15 mg/kg and 10 ml saline respectively, 10 min preoperatively. Primary outcome was volume of blood loss per square centimeter area of burn excised. Secondary outcomes were total volume of blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin, intraoperative fluid requirement, blood transfusion, graft take and length of hospitalization (LOH).ResultsThirty patients were included. Both groups were comparable in terms of Body Mass Index (BMI) preoperative hemoglobin, area of burn excised, duration of surgery and the intraoperative temperature. The average blood loss per square centimeter burn area excised was found to be significantly lower in TXA when compared to placebo group (mean difference: 0.28 ± 0.025 ml/cm²; p = 0.000). The total volume of blood loss was lower in TXA group (258.7 ± 124.10 ml vs 388.1 ± 173.9 ml; p = 0.07). None of the patients required transfusion. The requirement of intra-operative fluids was similar between the two groups (crystalloids: p = 0.236; colloids: p = 0.238). Postoperative hemoglobin, length of hospitalization and graft-take were comparable between the two groups.ConclusionTXA reduced blood loss per unit burn area of tangential excision in <30%TBSA burn, however, we found no significant effect on postoperative Hb and transfusion.     

Effects of topical tranexamic acid during open reduction and internal fixation of acetabular fractures: A retrospective study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to assess the effect of topical tranexamic acid on blood loss and transfusion rates in acetabular fracture surgery.MethodsThe medical records of 61 patients who underwent open reduction and internal fixation for acetabular fracture between 2012 and 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: Group I consisted of 31 patients (19 men and 12 women, mean age: 52 ± 19 years) who received intraoperatively a topical tranexamic acid solution of 3 g and Group 2 consisted of 30 control patients (17 men and 13 women, mean age: 48 ± 24 years) who received only 0.9% saline solution. The groups were compared based on their intraoperative blood loss, Postoperative drain output at 24 and 48 h, and postoperative hemoglobin levels, and transfusion rates.ResultsThe mean intraoperative blood loss was 410 ± 100 ml in Group 1, compared to 570 ml ± 160 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The postoperative drain output after 24 h was 210 ± 70 ml in Group 1 compared to 330 ± 90 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The drain output at 48 h was (50 ± 20 ml) in group 1 compared to 90 ± 40 ml of the control group (p < 0.05). The transfusion rate was significantly low group 1 (42%) than the control group (97%). Hemoglobin drop was again significantly less in tranexamic acid group (2.1 ± 1.1) than the control group (3.2 ± 1.3). The nadir postoperative hemoglobin was higher in the Group 1 (10.4 ± 1.5) than the control group (9.2 ± 1.3).ConclusionTopical administration of tranexamic acid reduces intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in acetabular fracture surgery, decreasing transfusion rates.Level of EvidenceLevel III, Therapeutic Study.     

The effect of tranexamic acid on the values of activated clotting time in patients undergoing cardiac surgery: A PRISMA-compliant systematic review and meta-analysis

Study objectiveActivated clotting time (ACT) is a non-specific test to evaluate the adequacy of systemic heparinization whose value could be influenced by many factors. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a widely used antifibrinolytic agent worldwide and whether TXA influences ACT value in cardiac surgical patients remains unknown. Current study was performed to address this question.DesignSystematic review and meta-analysis. PUBMED, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, OVID and Chinese BioMedical Literature & Retrieval System were searched using search terms “tranexamic acid”, “activated clotting time”, “cardiac surgery”, “randomized controlled trial” till May 7th, 2020, to identify all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs).SettingOperating room.PatientsCardiac surgical patients.InterventionsTXA or placebo.MeasurementsPrimary outcomes of interest included peri-operative ACT values. Secondary outcomes of interest include heparin dosage, protamine dosage, postoperative bleeding and blood transfusion.Main resultsSearch yielded 13 studies including 1168 patients, and 619 patients were allocated into Group TXA and 549 into Group Control (placebo). Meta-analysis suggested that, ACT values after heparinization [(WMD = −1.45; 95%CI: −12.52 to 15.43; P = 0.84)] and after protamine [(WMD = −1.18; 95%CI: −2.81 to 0.46; P = 0.16)] were comparable between Group TXA and Group Control, and that TXA did not influence heparin dose in adult patients [(WMD = 0.38; 95%CI: 0.30 to 0.46; P<0.00001) with no heterogeneity (I² = 4%, P = 0.35)] and protamine dose for heparin reversal [(WMD = 5.23; 95%CI: −0.33 to 10.80; P = 0.07) with no heterogeneity (I² = 0, P = 0.58)]. Meta-analysis also demonstrated that, TXA administration significantly reduced post-operative bleeding volume [(WMD = −126.33; 95%CI: −177.46 to −75.19; P < 0.0001), post-operative red blood cell (RBC) transfusion volume [(WMD = −71.86; 95% CI: −88.22 to −55.50; P < 0.00001), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion volume [(WMD = −13.83; 95% CI: −23.67 to −4.00; P = 0.006) and platelet concentrate (PC) transfusion volume [(WMD = −0.20; 95% CI: −0.29 to −0.10; P < 0.0001).ConclusionThis meta-analysis suggested that, TXA administration did not influence ACT value, heparin and protamine doses, but significantly reduced post-operative blood loss and transfusion requirement in cardiac surgical patients.     

The Efficacy of Combined Use of Rivaroxaban and Tranexamic Acid on Blood Conservation in Minimally Invasive Total Knee Arthroplasty a Double-Blind Randomized,Controlled Trial

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) was reportedly to decrease postoperative blood loss after standard total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, the blood-conservation effect of TXA in minimally invasive TKA, in particular, receiving a direct oral anticoagulant was unclear. The aim of the study was to investigate the efficacy of combined use of TXA and rivaroxaban on postoperative blood loss in primary minimally invasive TKA.

Tranexamic acid reduces blood loss in simultaneous bilateral total knee arthroplasty: a randomized control trial

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common procedure, and bilateral TKA ensures cost efficiency. Bilateral TKA is associated with increased requirement of blood transfusion (BT). BT is associated with hazards, therefore be avoided. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been suggested to reduce the BT, and the use of TXA in bilateral TKA appears sparse in literature. This study aimed at assessing the effect of TXA in such patients. This prospective randomized controlled trial evaluated the use of TXA in bilateral TKA. Pre- and postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) and packed cell volume (PCV), blood loss and BT, hospital stay, and the cost of TXA compared to blood transfusion were the measured variables. 175 patients (n?=?88 TXA, n?=?87 CTRL) completed the study. The patients in the control (CTRL) group on an average received 0.3 units and 0.07 in TXA group. The average blood loss in the TXA group was significantly less than the CTRL (P?<?0.0001). There was no significant difference in the perioperative complications, hospital stay in the two groups. The use of TXA reduces the postoperative blood loss. The allogenic BT requirement in patients undergoing bilateral TKA is significantly decreased. The routine use of this drug is cost-effective and reduces postoperative blood loss.     

The effect of intravenous tranexamic acid use on blood loss after revision shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundRevision total- and reverse shoulder arthroplasties have become more common as the incidence of primary shoulder arthroplasties rise and the older population grows. The use of tranexamic acid (TXA) to decrease perioperative blood loss has been well established in literatures; however, its use in revision shoulder arthroplasty has yet to be explored. We retrospectively examined the effect of TXA use on perioperative blood loss during revision shoulder arthroplasties.MethodsThis was a retrospective review of patients ≥18 years of age, who underwent revision total- or reverse shoulder arthroplasties at the investigating institution between June 2013 and December 2020. Patients were stratified into 2 groups based on perioperative intravenous (IV) TXA vs. No TXA exposure. Contraindications to IV TXA included a history of blood clots and coagulopathies. Demographics, medical comorbidities, pre- and post-op hemoglobin, drain output, need for transfusion during hospitalization, duration of surgery, length of hospitalization, emergency department visits within 90 days of surgery, readmission to hospital within 90 days of surgery, and development of postoperative hematoma were analyzed.ResultsA total of 192 procedures (90 IV TXA vs. 102 No TXA) were analyzed. The cohorts did not significantly differ in age, gender, body mass index, breakdown of type of revision, or medical comorbidities. Analysis of the cohorts demonstrated that the IV TXA group had a significantly higher preoperative hemoglobin (12.9 vs. 13.5, P = .012) and postoperative hemoglobin (9.6 vs. 10.5, P < .001), as well as a significantly lower exposure to drain placement (75% vs. 43%, P < .001) and lower drain output per day (145 ml vs. 97.5 ml, P < .001) as compared to the No TXA group following revision shoulder arthroplasty. The results favored the IV TXA group with regard to blood loss, transfusions, duration of surgery, length of stay, and hospital readmissions within 90 days; however, these did not reach statistical significance.ConclusionsTXA use in revision shoulder arthroplasty significantly decreased the drain output; however had no significant effect on blood loss or transfusion rates.     

The effect of multiple-dose oral versus intravenous tranexamic acid in reducing postoperative blood loss and transfusion rate after adolescent scoliosis surgery: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND CONTEXTTranexamic acid (TXA) is widely used in surgery for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) and has been proved to be efficacious in reducing intraoperative blood loss (IBL) and the transfusion rate. However, the routine TXA regimen was intraoperative administration alone, in which the concentration of TXA could not cover the whole process of hyperfibrinolysis. And, its ability to control the massive postoperative blood loss (PBL) may be insufficient. Thus, we promoted a multiple-dose regimen of TXA for patients with AIS who underwent surgical correction.PURPOSEThe primary aims were (1) to determine whether the multiple-dose regimen of TXA could reduce PBL and the postoperative transfusion rate, and (2) to compare the efficacy of oral administration with intravenous administration. The secondary aims were (3) to evaluate whether this regimen could alleviate inflammatory response, and (4) to assess the occurrence of drug-related side effects.STUDY DESIGNProspective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial.PATIENT SAMPLEA total of 108 patients with AIS who underwent posterior scoliosis correction and spinal fusion (PSS) were enrolled in this study.OUTCOME MEASURESThe primary parameters were PBL and postoperative transfusion rate. Other parameters such as total blood loss (TBL), maximum hemoglobin (Hb) decrease, volume of drainage, inflammation markers (interleukin-6 [IL-6] and C-reactive protein [CRP]), and occurrence of complications were also collected and compared. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the variables that affected PBL.METHODSPatients were randomized into three groups. All patients received intravenous TXA 50 mg/kg loading dose and 10 mg/kg/h maintenance dose during surgery. Group A received 1 g oral TXA at 4 hours, 10 hours, and 16 hours postoperatively; group B received 0.5 g intravenous TXA at 6 hours, 12 hours, and 18 hours postoperatively; group C received placebo.RESULTSThe mean PBL and postoperative transfusion rate in group A (957.8±378.9 mL, 13.89%) and B (980.3±491.8 mL, 11.11%) were significantly lower than those in group C [1,495.9±449.6 mL, mean differences=538.1 mL, 95% confidence interval (CI), 290.1–786.1 mL, p<0.001; 515.6 mL, 95% CI, 267.6–763.6 mL, p<.001]; (36.11%, p=.029, p=.013). Meanwhile, the mean TBL, maximum Hb decrease, and volume of drainage were also significantly lower in group A and B than in group C. IL-6 and CRP in group A and B were significantly lower than in group C from postoperative days 1 to 3. All these differences were not significant between groups A and B. No drug-related complications were observed in any patient. Multiple regression showed that the application of postoperative TXA and number of screws were significant parameters affecting PBL.CONCLUSIONSA multiple-dose regimen of TXA, either by oral or intravenous application, could be a safe and effective means of controlling PBL and decreasing the postoperative transfusion rate in patients with AIS who underwent scoliosis surgery. In addition, it could inhibit postoperative inflammatory response.     

The role of tranexamic acid in reducing post-operative bleeding and seroma formation in breast surgery: A meta-analysis

IntroductionTranexamic acid (TXA) reduces blood loss and blood transfusion requirements in surgery. Seroma and haematoma formation occur as complications of breast surgery. We aimed to perform a meta-analysis evaluating TXA in reducing post-operative haematoma and seroma formation for breast surgery.MethodsA systematic review was performed in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results were expressed as dichotomous variables pooled as odds ratios (OR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using the Mantel–Haenszel method.ResultsSeven studies including 1446 patients were included. There were 1830 breast surgery procedures performed with TXA administered in 797 cases (43.6%). There was a significant reduction in haematoma rates in the TXA group (TXA: 3.184% (22/691) vs Control: 6.787% (64/943), OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.20–0.86, P = 0.020). Based on surgical procedure, haematoma rates were similar for TXA and control groups in cancer surgery (P = 0.230). Haematoma rates reduced following TXA use in cosmetic procedures (TXA: 3.807% (15/394) vs. Control: 9.091% (34/374), OR: 0.41, 95% CI: 0.22–0.75, P = 0.004). Haematoma rates were also reduced in procedures where axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) was not performed; in the TXA group, 3.379% (22/651) developed a haematoma versus 6.623% (60/906) in the control group (OR: 0.45, 95% CI 0.27–0.77, P = 0.003). TXA administration did not impact seroma formation or infection rates.ConclusionPerioperative administration of TXA may impact the incidence of haematoma in breast surgery, particularly in cosmetic procedures and procedures without ALND. Well-designed randomised studies are required to determine its true efficacy. TXA has no effect on seroma formation or infection in breast surgery.     

Risk factors for blood transfusion after revision shoulder arthroplasty

BackgroundHigher blood transfusion rates have been reported in revision shoulder arthroplasty than in primary arthroplasty. This study seeks to evaluate factors associated with blood transfusions after revision shoulder arthroplasty and to evaluate the effectiveness of tranexamic acid (TXA) to reduce blood transfusion rates in revision shoulder arthroplasty.MethodsAll shoulder arthroplasties performed at one institution were retrospectively reviewed using a research database over two time periods: before (November 2011 to November 2012) and after (April 2015 to April 2017) a protocol for the use of TXA was implemented. The inclusion criterion was any revision shoulder arthroplasty performed during the study time periods. Demographic, preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative factors were reviewed and compared based on transfusion. Patients who received TXA were compared with those patients who did not. Two-tailed Fisher exact tests, unpaired Welch’s t-tests, and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to compare groups.ResultsA total of 135 revision shoulder arthroplasties were performed and evaluated during the study period. The overall transfusion rate for revision shoulder arthroplasty was 14.1%. Preoperative hematocrit (Hct) <42 was associated with a higher transfusion rate (18% vs. 5%; P = .03) on univariate analysis. Patients who received a transfusion had a significantly longer length of hospital stay (4.3 vs. 2.0 nights; P < .001). After controlling for covariates in the multivariate analysis, gender, body mass index, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, a history of a bleeding disorder, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, surgery type, and humeral stem retention were not individually associated with the need for a blood transfusion. A higher estimated blood loss was associated with a higher risk of blood transfusion (odds ratio, 2.04 per 100 mL increase; P < .001). On multivariate analysis, a one-unit decrease in preoperative Hct increased the odds of a blood transfusion by 1.20 (P = .03). On multivariate analysis, the use of TXA was associated with a decreased transfusion rate, but this only approached significance (odds ratio, 0.26; confidence interval, 0.05-1.24; P = .09).ConclusionBlood transfusion after revision shoulder arthroplasty is more common in patients with lower preoperative Hct and a higher estimated blood loss on multivariate analysis with an overall transfusion rate of 14%. The use of perioperative TXA was associated with a decreased risk of transfusion, but this only approached significance.     

Hemostatic and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Carbazochrome Sodium Sulfonate in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BackgroundPostoperative recovery after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is associated with postoperative anemia, allogeneic transfusion, and stress immune responses to surgery. Carbazochrome sodium sulfonate (CSS) reduces bleeding through several mechanisms. We assessed the effect of CSS combined with tranexamic acid (TXA) on postoperative anemia, blood transfusion, and inflammatory responses.MethodsThis study was designed as a randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 200 patients undergoing unilateral primary TKA. Patients were divided into 4 groups: group A received TXA plus topical and intravenous CSS; group B received TXA plus topical CSS only; group C received TXA plus intravenous CSS only; group D received TXA only.ResultsTotal blood loss in groups A (609.92 ± 221.24 mL), B (753.16 ± 247.67 mL), and C (829.23 ± 297.45 mL) was lower than in group D (1158.26 ± 334.13 mL, P < .05). There was no difference in total blood loss between groups B and C. We also found that compared with group D, the postoperative swelling rate, biomarker level of inflammation, visual analog scale pain score, and range of motion at discharge in groups A, B, and C were significantly improved (P < .05). No thromboembolic complications occurred. There were no differences in transfusion rate, intraoperative blood loss, platelet count, or average length of stay among the 4 groups (P > .05).ConclusionCSS combined with TXA was more effective than TXA alone in reducing perioperative blood loss and inflammatory response and did not increase the incidence of thromboembolism complications.     

Combined treatment of intraoperative cell-salvage and tranexamic acid for primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty: Are there added benefits?

BackgroundBlood management strategies in total hip arthroplasty (THA) are essential in reducing intraoperative blood loss, blood transfusion and associated complications. This study investigates whether using intraoperative cell-salvage (ICS) with tranexamic acid (TXA) has additional effects on blood loss and allogeneic transfusion in primary THA. Additionally, we evaluated the financial impact of using ICS on our institution.MethodsUsing an institutional database, 1171 cases of primary unilateral THA performed between May 2015 and January 2016 were identified. Subjects were separated into those who received only TXA (n = 323) and those who received TXA and ICS (n = 848). Calculated blood loss and post-operative blood transfusions were assessed using logistic regression. Drop in hematocrit was assessed using linear regression. Multivariable models adjusted for intraoperative blood transfusions, pre-operative autologous blood donation, anticoagulation medications, sex, and body mass index. Pricing data was used to calculate the costs associated with these interventions.ResultsThe likelihood of post-operative allogeneic blood transfusion was similar for the combined group relative to the TXA group (OR = 0.63; 95% CI: 0.26, 1.54), as was the likelihood of any post-operative blood transfusion (OR = 1.13; 95% CI: 0.63, 2.01). There was no correlative relationship between use of ICS and hematocrit drop when accounting for baseline hematocrit (R² = 0.118). Factoring in rental, service fees, and disposable equipment, the utilization of ICS added $146 to each case, resulting in a gross expenditure of over $123,000 during the study period.ConclusionsThe combination of ICS with TXA for primary unilateral THA did not improve blood loss or transfusion outcomes compared to TXA alone. As there was no observed clinical benefit to combined treatment, additional costs associated with routine usage of ICS may not be justifiable. Our institution would have reduced expenditures for blood loss management products by 85% during the study period if all patients had only received TXA.     

Reducing blood loss in pediatric craniosynostosis surgery by use of tranexamic acid

IntroductionCraniosysnostosis surgical corrections are routine procedures in the pediatric neurosurgical field. However, these procedures result in significant blood loss. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic drug, which has demonstrated a significant reduction in perioperative blood loss in many pediatric surgical procedures such as cardiac surgery and scoliosis surgery. We conducted a systematic review to evaluate protocols of TXA use in pediatric craniosynostosis procedures and its effect on intraoperative blood loss and transfusions.Material and methodsA comprehensive literature review of the National Library of Medicine (PubMed) database was performed to identify relevant studies. We included any clinical study reporting on blood loss or blood transfusion for pediatric craniosynostosis surgery with intraoperative use of tranexamic acid, with the following limits: publication date from inception to May 2019; reports in English.ResultsThirteen studies were eligible for our review. Of the 13 studies, 4 were prospective, randomised, double-blind controlled trials, 9 were retrospective studies, tailored as a “before–after” studies, comparing blood loss and transfusion without/with TXA. TXA significantly decreases the number and volume of packed red blood cell transfusions and the rate of transfusion in children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery. Significantly fewer fresh frozen plasma transfusions were required in the TXA groups in 2 randomised studies. Length of stay in hospital was significantly lower with the use of TXA in three studies. Advantages of TXA administration also include an excellent patient tolerance of side effects, ease of administration and low cost.ConclusionTXA significantly reduces blood loss and the need for transfusions in children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery. TXA administration should be a routine part of strategy to reduce blood loss and limit transfusions in these procedures.     

Does Tranexamic Acid Reduce Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirements Associated With the Periacetabular Osteotomy?

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has shown safety and efficacy in reducing blood loss associated with various surgical procedures. However, to our knowledge there are no studies evaluating the effect of TXA on blood loss and transfusion requirements associated with periacetabular osteotomy (PAO).

Questions/purposes

The main purpose of this study is to determine whether TXA reduces blood loss and transfusion use in patients undergoing PAO for symptomatic acetabular dysplasia. Our secondary purpose was to compare the frequency of symptomatic thromboembolic events between patients undergoing surgery with and without TXA.

Methods

A consecutive series of 100 periacetabular osteotomies performed by one surgeon was reviewed to compare the groups immediately before and after implementation of routine use of tranexamic acid (two retrospective cohorts). TXA dosing followed an established protocol with a standard dose of 1 g infused intravenously during 10 minutes before skin incision and an additional 1 g intravenously at wound closure. Outcome measures include total estimated blood loss perioperatively and transfusion requirements. Total estimated blood loss was calculated using a formula built from the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data regarding surgical blood loss.

Results

The mean perioperative total estimated blood loss was less in the patients receiving TXA compared with blood loss in patients who did not receive TXA (706 mL versus 1021 mL; p < 0.001; 95% CI, −495 to −134). Twenty-six (52%) of the 50 patients who did not receive TXA had postoperative blood transfusions compared with 15 (30%) of 50 who received TXA (odds ratio, 0.395; 95% CI, 0.174–0.899; p = 0.0414). No symptomatic deep vein thromboses or symptomatic pulmonary emboli were identified in either group.

Conclusions

TXA reduces estimated blood loss and the frequency of transfusions in patients undergoing PAO for treatment of symptomatic acetabular dysplasia. Future prospective studies should confirm our findings to determine whether patients undergoing PAO should receive routine perioperative TXA.

Level of Evidence

Level III, therapeutic study.     

Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in hip fracture surgery. How does dosage affect outcomes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AimThe objective of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of intravenous TXA administration in elderly patients undergoing hip fracture surgery focusing on the effect of various dosages.MethodsA systematic search of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library was conducted until February 2021. Our primary outcome was peri?operative total blood loss, while secondary outcomes included transfusion rate, mean count of transfused RBC units and thromboembolic events’ incidence. A subgroup analysis was performed with respect to TXA dosage.ResultsOut of 146 records identified, 10 randomized controlled studies met the selection criteria. Data synthesis revealed that TXA resulted in a significant reduction in total blood loss by 229.45 ml in favor of TXA; 95% CI: [189.5, 269.4] and transfusion rate by 40%, RR = 0.60; 95% CI: [0.47, 0.78]. No increase in thromboembolic events rate was observed (RR = 1.08, 95% CI: [0.68, 1.69]) Furthermore, sub-analysis with respect to TXA dosage showed no significant difference in total blood loss reduction between “single” and “multiple doses” studies (223 vs 233.5 ml, p = 0.85.), while a trend for lower complications rate was observed in patients receiving a single dose of ≤ 15 mg/kg.ConclusionsThis meta-analysis provides strong evidence that TXA is a safe and effective agent to reduce perioperative blood loss in hip fracture surgery. When compared with higher dosages, a single dose of 15 mg/kg is associated with a non-significant reduction in adverse events, while achieving comparable outcomes.