What is the optimal approach for tranexamic acid application in patients with unilateral total hip arthroplasty?

Pharmacological interventions for the prevention of bleeding in people undergoing elective hip or knee surgery: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Hip and knee replacement surgery is a well-established means of improving quality of life, but is associated with a significant risk of bleeding. One-third of people are estimated to be anaemic before hip or knee replacement surgery; coupled with the blood lost during surgery, up to 90% of individuals are anaemic postoperatively. As a result, people undergoing orthopaedic surgery receive 3.9% of all packed red blood cell transfusions in the UK. Bleeding and the need for allogeneic blood transfusions has been shown to increase the risk of surgical site infection and mortality, and is associated with an increased duration of hospital stay and costs associated with surgery. Reducing blood loss during surgery may reduce the risk of allogeneic blood transfusion, reduce costs and improve outcomes following surgery. Several pharmacological interventions are available and currently employed as part of routine clinical care.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the relative efficacy of pharmacological interventions for preventing blood loss in elective primary or revision hip or knee replacement, and to identify optimal administration of interventions regarding timing, dose and route, using network meta-analysis (NMA) methodology.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the following databases for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, from inception to 18 October 2022: CENTRAL (the Cochrane Library), MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Transfusion Evidence Library (Evidentia), ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP).

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included RCTs of people undergoing elective hip or knee surgery only. We excluded non-elective or emergency procedures, and studies published since 2010 that had not been prospectively registered (Cochrane Injuries policy). There were no restrictions on gender, ethnicity or age (adults only). We excluded studies that used standard of care as the comparator. Eligible interventions included: antifibrinolytics (tranexamic acid (TXA), aprotinin, epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA)), desmopressin, factor VIIa and XIII, fibrinogen, fibrin sealants and non-fibrin sealants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We performed the review according to standard Cochrane methodology. Two authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted data. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using CINeMA. We presented direct (pairwise) results using RevMan Web and performed the NMA using BUGSnet. We were interested in the following primary outcomes: need for allogenic blood transfusion (up to 30 days) and all-cause mortality (deaths occurring up to 30 days after the operation), and the following secondary outcomes: mean number of transfusion episodes per person (up to 30 days), re-operation due to bleeding (within seven days), length of hospital stay and adverse events related to the intervention received.

MAIN RESULTS

We included a total of 102 studies. Twelve studies did not report the number of included participants; the other 90 studies included 8418 participants. Trials included more women (64%) than men (36%). In the NMA for allogeneic blood transfusion, we included 47 studies (4398 participants). Most studies examined TXA (58 arms, 56%). We found that TXA, given intra-articularly and orally at a total dose of greater than 3 g pre-incision, intraoperatively and postoperatively, ranked the highest, with an anticipated absolute effect of 147 fewer blood transfusions per 1000 people (150 fewer to 104 fewer) (53% chance of ranking 1st) within the NMA (risk ratio (RR) 0.02, 95% credible interval (CrI) 0 to 0.31; moderate-certainty evidence). This was followed by TXA given orally at a total dose of 3 g pre-incision and postoperatively (RR 0.06, 95% CrI 0.00 to 1.34; low-certainty evidence) and TXA given intravenously and orally at a total dose of greater than 3 g intraoperatively and postoperatively (RR 0.10, 95% CrI 0.02 to 0.55; low-certainty evidence). Aprotinin (RR 0.59, 95% CrI 0.36 to 0.96; low-certainty evidence), topical fibrin (RR 0.86, CrI 0.25 to 2.93; very low-certainty evidence) and EACA (RR 0.60, 95% CrI 0.29 to 1.27; very low-certainty evidence) were not shown to be as effective compared with TXA at reducing the risk of blood transfusion. We were unable to perform an NMA for our primary outcome all-cause mortality within 30 days of surgery due to the large number of studies with zero events, or because the outcome was not reported. In the NMA for deep vein thrombosis (DVT), we included 19 studies (2395 participants). Most studies examined TXA (27 arms, 64%). No studies assessed desmopressin, EACA or topical fibrin. We found that TXA given intravenously and orally at a total dose of greater than 3 g intraoperatively and postoperatively ranked the highest, with an anticipated absolute effect of 67 fewer DVTs per 1000 people (67 fewer to 34 more) (26% chance of ranking first) within the NMA (RR 0.16, 95% CrI 0.02 to 1.43; low-certainty evidence). This was followed by TXA given intravenously and intra-articularly at a total dose of 2 g pre-incision and intraoperatively (RR 0.21, 95% CrI 0.00 to 9.12; low-certainty evidence) and TXA given intravenously and intra-articularly, total dose greater than 3 g pre-incision, intraoperatively and postoperatively (RR 0.13, 95% CrI 0.01 to 3.11; low-certainty evidence). Aprotinin was not shown to be as effective compared with TXA (RR 0.67, 95% CrI 0.28 to 1.62; very low-certainty evidence). We were unable to perform an NMA for our secondary outcomes pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction and CVA (stroke) within 30 days, mean number of transfusion episodes per person (up to 30 days), re-operation due to bleeding (within seven days), or length of hospital stay, due to the large number of studies with zero events, or because the outcome was not reported by enough studies to build a network. There are 30 ongoing trials planning to recruit 3776 participants, the majority examining TXA (26 trials).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We found that of all the interventions studied, TXA is probably the most effective intervention for preventing bleeding in people undergoing hip or knee replacement surgery. Aprotinin and EACA may not be as effective as TXA at preventing the need for allogeneic blood transfusion. We were not able to draw strong conclusions on the optimal dose, route and timing of administration of TXA. We found that TXA given at higher doses tended to rank higher in the treatment hierarchy, and we also found that it may be more beneficial to use a mixed route of administration (oral and intra-articular, oral and intravenous, or intravenous and intra-articular). Oral administration may be as effective as intravenous administration of TXA. We found little to no evidence of harm associated with higher doses of tranexamic acid in the risk of DVT. However, we are not able to definitively draw these conclusions based on the trials included within this review.

The optimal regimen, efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid to reduce bleeding for patients after total hip arthroplasty: A systematic review and Bayesian network meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate the optimal regimen, efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid (TXA) and aminocaproic acid (EACA) for patients after total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

The network meta-analysis was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) guideline. The outcomes were total blood loss, transfusion rates, hemoglobin (HB) drop, and risk for pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Subgroup analyses were performed among most effective regimens to determine the influences of timing and number of doses.

RESULTS

A total of 56 eligible RCTs with different regimens were assessed. For reducing total blood loss, all high doses of TXA and EACA except high dose of intra-articular (IA) TXA, as well as medium dose of combination of intravenous and intra-articular (combined IV/IA) TXA were most effective. All high doses of TXA, as well as medium dose of combined IV/IA TXA did not show inferiority in reducing transfusion rates and HB drop compared with other regimens. No regimens showed higher risk for PE or DVT compared with placebo, and no statistical differences were seen among most effective regimens in subgroup analyses.

CONCLUSIONS

As effective as high doses of EACA and TXA, medium dose (20-40 mg/kg or 1.5-3.0 g) of combined IV/IA TXA was enough to control bleeding for patients after THA without increasing risk for PE/DVT. TXA was at least 5 times more potent than EACA. Timing and number of doses had few influences on blood conserving efficacy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

The effect of tranexamic acid for visualization on pump pressure and visualization during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair: an anonymized, randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been used surgically to decrease blood loss. The ability of TXA to improve arthroscopic visualization and allow for reduction in pump pressure is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of intravenous (IV) TXA on change in pump pressure and visualization during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair.

METHODS

This was a single-center, prospective, randomized, double-anonymized controlled trial. Patients with full-thickness rotator cuff tears undergoing operative repair were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive 1 g of IV TXA preoperatively or no TXA (control group). All patients underwent arthroscopy using saline irrigation fluid with 3 mL epinephrine injected into the first 1000-mL saline bag. Total operative time, final pump pressure, number of increases in pump pressure, total amount of irrigation fluid used, blood pressure and anesthesia medical interventions for blood pressure were recorded. Visualization was measured by a visual analog scale (VAS) completed by the surgeon at the end of the case. Postoperative VAS pain scores were obtained 24 hours after surgery. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect that IV TXA has on change in pump pressure (ΔP) during shoulder arthroscopy, with a ΔP of 15 mm Hg set as a threshold for clinical significance.

RESULTS

There were 50 patients randomized to the TXA group and 50 patients in the no TXA group. No significant differences were found between the TXA group and the control group regarding any measure of pump pressure, including the final arthroscopic fluid pump pressure (44.5 ± 8.1 mm Hg vs. 42.0 ± 8.08 mm Hg, P = .127), the mean ΔP (20.9 ± 10.5 mm Hg vs. 21.8 ± 8.5 mm Hg, P = .845), or the number of times a change in pump pressure was required (1.7 ± 0.9 vs. 1.7 ± 0.8, P = .915). Overall arthroscopic visualization was not significantly different between the TXA group and the control group (7.2 ± 1.8 vs. 7.4 ± 1.6, P = .464). No significant difference existed between the TXA and control groups regarding postoperative pain scores assessed by VAS pain scale (4.1 ± 2.0 vs. 4.3 ± 1.9, P = .519) at 24 hours after surgery.

CONCLUSION

The use of IV TXA demonstrated no measurable improvement in surgeon ability to maintain a lower pump pressure during arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. Additionally, there was no measurable improvement in arthroscopic visualization or early pain scores.

Cytotoxicity of tranexamic acid to tendon and bone in vitro: Is there a safe dosage?

Introduction

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be effective at reducing peri-operative blood loss and haemarthrosis in arthroplasty and arthroscopic soft tissue reconstructions. Intra-articular application, as an injection or peri-articular wash, is becoming increasingly common. Recent studies have shown TXA has the potential to be cytotoxic to cartilage, but its effects on human tendon and bone remain poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether TXA has any detrimental effects on tendon-derived cells and osteoblast-like cells and determine whether there is a safe dosage for clinical application.

Materials and methods

Primary tendon-derived cells and osteoblast-like cells were harvested from hamstring tendons and trabecular bone explants, respectively, and analysed in vitro with a range of TXA concentrations (0 to 100 mg/ml) at time points: 3 and 24 h. The in vitro toxic effect of TXA was investigated using viability assays (alamarBlue), functional assays (collagen deposition), fluorescent microscopy and live/apoptosis/necrosis staining for cell death mechanisms in 2D monolayer and 3D collagen gel cell culture.

Results

There was a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in tendon-derived cell and osteoblast-like cell numbers following treatment with TXA ≥ 50 mg/ml after 3 h and ≥ 20 mg/ml after 24 h. In tendon-derived cells, increasing concentrations > 35 mg/ml resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) reduced collagen deposition. Fluorescence imaging confirmed atypical cellular morphologies with increasing TXA concentrations and reduced cell numbers. The mechanism of cell death was demonstrated to be occurring through apoptosis.

Conclusions

Topical TXA treatment demonstrated dose- and time-dependent cytotoxicity to tendon-derived cells and osteoblast-like cells with concentrations 20 mg/ml and above in isolated 2D and 3D in vitro culture. On the basis of these findings, concentrations of less than 20 mg/ml are expected to be safe. Orthopaedic surgeons should show caution when considering topical TXA treatments, particularly in soft tissue and un-cemented arthroplasty procedures.

Anterolateral minimally invasive hip approach offered faster rehabilitation with lower complication rates compared to the minimally invasive posterior hip approach-a University clinic case control study of 120 cases

INTRODUCTION

The surgical approach used in total hip arthroplasty (THA) has been identified as a factor affecting the outcome. In our University Hospital, the posterior surgical approach is the gold standard. The Rottinger approach is an anterolateral approach which is truly minimally invasive, as it does not vertically cut any muscle fibers. The objective of this study was to determine the difference in surgical outcomes between the posterior hip approach and the Rottinger approach which was newly adopted at our Hospital.

METHODS

In a retrospective study, a total of 120 patients underwent THA; 60 patients using the Rottinger approach by the young consultant surgeon and another 60 patients using the standard posterior approach by the senior orthopaedic surgeon. Patients have been controlled for age, gender, and ASA grades. All preoperative demographic data showed no significant difference between the control and study groups. The following parameters were analyzed: incision length, duration of the surgery, intraoperative blood loss, WOMAC index, Harris Hip Score, range of motion at 3 and 12 months after surgery, time of quitting the crutches, and willingness for the contralateral hip arthroplasty.

RESULTS

WOMAC index, surgical time, and incision lengths have been without significant difference in both approaches. Intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in the Rottinger group (CI:  - 10.903,  - 0.064). Harris Hip score was significantly higher (CI: 4.564, 12.973) in the Rottinger group at 3 months, but similar (CI:  - 3.484, 2.134) at 12 months follow-up. At 3 months, active flexion and extension were significantly higher in the Rottinger group (CI: 0.595, 8.239; 2.487, 4.480, respectively), and active abduction and passive adduction (CI:  - 5.662,  - 0.338;  - 6.290,  - 1.410, respectively) in the posterior approach group. Patients in the Rottinger approach group on average quit crutches 3 weeks earlier and had no postoperative dislocations compared to 2 dislocations in the control group.

CONCLUSION

The Rottinger approach offered faster rehabilitation with less need for crutches and with lower complication rates.

Efficacy of intravenous tranexamic acid administration in revision hip arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of constant dose intravenous administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing postoperative blood loss, hemoglobin (Hb) concentration, and the number of transfusions in revision hip arthroplasty (RHA).

METHODS

The study included 145 consecutive patients who had undergone RHA: a TXA group (75 patients) who received two doses of TXA (1.0 g 15 min before skin incision and 1.0 g during wound closure) and a no-TXA group (70 patients). Percentage blood loss and quantitative blood loss were calculated.

RESULTS

The percentage blood loss (23.82 ± 10.6% vs. 39.17 ± 15.1%; P < 0.001), Hb drop (2.9 ± 1.14 g/dL vs. 4.22 ± 1.4 g/dL; P < 0.001), and total blood loss (1030 ± 477 mL vs. 1736 ± 761 mL; P < 0.001) were significantly lower in the TXA group than in the no-TXA group on postoperative day 1. Percentage blood loss (37.5 ± 10.4% vs. 43.1 ± 12.5%; P < 0.01), Hb drop (4.64 ± 1.5 g/dL vs. 5.22 ± 1.6 g/dL; P < 0.01) and total blood loss (1639 ± 543 mL vs. 1908 ± 681 mL; P = 0.02) were significantly lower in the TXA group than in the no-TXA group on the 5th postoperative day. The blood transfusion requirements were lower in the TXA group than those in the no-TXA group (30.7% vs. 71.4% of patients; P < 0.001), with a lower transfusion per patient ratio of 0.55 in the TXA group and 1.4 in the no-TXA group. No postoperative complications were associated with TXA administration, including deep-vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.

CONCLUSION

Administration of TXA is an effective method to reduce perioperative blood loss, Hb drop and the number of transfusions in RHA.

Toxicity of tranexamic acid (TXA) to intra-articular tissue in orthopaedic surgery: a scoping review

PURPOSE

Intra-articular administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in orthopaedic arthroplasty and arthroscopic procedures has become increasingly common over the past decade. However, several recent reports have shown that TXA has the potential to be cytotoxic to cartilage, tendon and synovium. Our aim was to review the literature for evidence of toxic effects from TXA exposure to intra-articular tissue.

METHODS

A scoping review methodology was used to search for studies assessing the toxic effects of TXA exposure to intra-articular tissues. MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS and The Cochrane Library were searched. Relevant information was extracted and synthesis of the retrieved data followed a basic content analytical approach.

RESULTS

A total of 15 laboratory studies were retrieved. No clinical studies reporting a toxic effect of TXA on intra-articular tissue were identified in our search. Studies were analysed according to species of origin, tissue of origin and study setting (in vitro, ex vivo, or in vivo). There was increasing cytotoxicity to chondrocytes, tenocytes, synoviocytes and periosteum-derived cells with TXA concentrations beyond 20 mg/ml. Monolayer cell cultures appear more susceptible to TXA exposure, than three-dimensional and explant culture models. In vivo studies have not demonstrated a major toxic effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Current evidence suggests a dose-dependent toxic effect on cartilage, tendon, and synovial tissue. Concentrations of 20 mg/ml or less are expected to be safe. There is a significant body of evidence to suggest the need for caution with intraarticular administration of TXA. There is a need for further human clinical trials in order to clarify the long-term safety of TXA topical application.

Investigation of the Effects of Intra-articular Tranexamic Acid on Intact Cartilage Tissue and Cartilage Formation in Osteochondral Defects of the Rabbit Knee: An Experimental Study

Background

In this study, the effects of tranexamic acid (TXA) and saline on intact cartilage and the recovery of experimental osteochondral lesions following microfracture in a rabbit model were compared.

Methods

Twenty adult rabbits were divided into four groups (1A, 1B, 2A, and 2B) based on with or without TXA use and microfracture. In addition, these groups were categorized into two different subgroups based on the use of TXA in Groups 1 and 2 (Groups A and B). Full-thickness cartilage defects were created on the weight-bearing surface of the medial femoral condyles unilaterally in Group 2 for the effect of TXA or saline on healthy cartilage tissue while a repetitive injection was applied in Group 1 for the effect of TXA or saline on intact cartilage. A single dose of 10 mg/kg TXA was injected into the knee joints of Group A and 10 mg/kg 0.9% saline solution injected in Group B for three consecutive days. All animals were sacrificed for the extraction of the medial condyles for histologic evaluation eight weeks after surgery. The International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) II scoring system was used for histologic evaluation.

Results

No complications or adverse effects related to surgery were observed in all rabbits. All ICRS II parameters were similar in the TXA and saline solution groups in the intact cartilage group except for chondrocyte clustering, formation of a tidemark, subchondral bone abnormalities, and mid/deep zone assessment. Moreover, these parameters were higher in the saline solution group in the cartilage group, but no significant difference was observed in the TXA group in the intact cartilage group. All ICRS II parameters were higher in the saline solution group than in the TXA group in the microfracture group, but no significant difference was observed in the TXA group in the microfracture group except for inflammation, which was similar in the TXA and saline solution groups in the microfracture group.

Conclusion

We found that intra-articular TXA administration did not have a negative impact on healthy cartilage tissue and cartilage transformation and proliferation as compared to the saline infusion.

Association of Intravenous Tranexamic Acid With Thromboembolic Events and Mortality: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Meta-regression

IMPORTANCE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an efficient antifibrinolytic agent; however, concerns remain about the potential adverse effects, particularly vascular occlusive events, that may be associated with its use.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between intravenous TXA and total thromboembolic events (TEs) and mortality in patients of all ages and of any medical disciplines.

DATA SOURCE

Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and MEDLINE were searched for eligible studies investigating intravenous TXA and postinterventional outcome published between 1976 and 2020.

STUDY SELECTION

Randomized clinical trials comparing intravenous TXA with placebo/no treatment. The electronic database search yielded a total of 782 studies, and 381 were considered for full-text review. Included studies were published in English, German, French, and Spanish. Studies with only oral or topical tranexamic administration were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

Meta-analysis, subgroup and sensitivity analysis, and meta-regression were performed. This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Vascular occlusive events and mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 216 eligible trials including 125 550 patients were analyzed. Total TEs were found in 1020 (2.1%) in the group receiving TXA and 900 (2.0%) in the control group. This study found no association between TXA and risk for total TEs (risk difference = 0.001; 95% CI, -0.001 to 0.002; P = .49) for venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, venous TEs, myocardial infarction or ischemia, and cerebral infarction or ischemia. Sensitivity analysis using the risk ratio as an effect measure with (risk ratio = 1.02; 95% CI, 0.94-1.11; P = .56) and without (risk ratio = 1.03; 95% CI, 0.95-1.12; P = .52) studies with double-zero events revealed robust effect size estimates. Sensitivity analysis with studies judged at low risk for selection bias showed similar results. Administration of TXA was associated with a significant reduction in overall mortality and bleeding mortality but not with nonbleeding mortality. In addition, an increased risk for vascular occlusive events was not found in studies including patients with a history of thromboembolism. Comparison of studies with sample sizes of less than or equal to 99 (risk difference = 0.004; 95% CI, -0.006 to 0.014; P = .40), 100 to 999 (risk difference = 0.004; 95% CI, -0.003 to 0.011; P = .26), and greater than or equal to 1000 (risk difference = -0.001; 95% CI, -0.003 to 0.001; P = .44) showed no association between TXA and incidence of total TEs. Meta-regression of 143 intervention groups showed no association between TXA dosing and risk for venous TEs (risk difference, -0.005; 95% CI, -0.021 to 0.011; P = .53).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

Findings from this systematic review and meta-analysis of 216 studies suggested that intravenous TXA, irrespective of dosing, is not associated with increased risk of any TE. These results help clarify the incidence of adverse events associated with administration of intravenous TXA and suggest that TXA is safe for use with undetermined utility for patients receiving neurological care.

Prophylactic Topical Tranexamic Acid Versus Placebo in Surgical Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis∗

OBJECTIVES

Perioperative bleeding remains a major concern to all clinicians caring for perioperative patients. Due to the theoretical risk of thromboembolic events associated with tranexamic acid (TXA) when administered intravenously, topical route of TXA has been extensively studied, but its safety and efficacy profile remain unclear in the literature. The primary aim of this review was to assess the effect of topical TXA on incidence of blood transfusion and mortality in adults undergoing surgery.

DATA SOURCES

EMBASE, MEDLINE, CENTRAL, and ISI Web of Science were systematically searched from their inception until May 31, 2019.

REVIEW METHODS

Parallel-arm randomized controlled trials were included.

RESULTS

Seventy-one trials (7539 participants: orthopedics 5450 vs nonorthopedics 1909) were included for quantitative meta-analysis. In comparison to placebo, topical TXA significantly reduced intraoperative blood loss [mean difference (MD) -36.83 mL, 95% confidence interval (CI) -54.77 to -18.88, P < 0.001], total blood loss (MD -319.55 mL, 95% CI -387.42 to -251.69, P < 0.001), and incidence of blood transfusion [odds ratio (OR) 0.30, 95% CI 0.26-0.34, P < 0.001]. Patients who received topical TXA were associated with a shorter length of hospital stay (MD -0.28 days, 95% CI -0.47 to -0.08, P = 0.006). No adverse events associated with the use of topical TXA were observed, namely mortality (OR 0.78, 95% CI 0.45-1.36, P = 0.39), pulmonary embolism (OR 0.73, 95% CI 0.27-1.93, P = 0.52), deep vein thrombosis (OR 1.07, 95% CI 0.65-1.77, P = 0.79), myocardial infarction (OR 0.79, 95% CI 0.21-2.99, P = 0.73), and stroke (OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.28-2.57, P = 0.77). Of all included studies, the risk of bias assessment was "low" for 20 studies, "unclear" for 26 studies and "high" for 25 studies.

CONCLUSIONS

In the meta-analysis of 71 trials (7539 patients), topical TXA reduced the incidence of blood transfusion without any notable adverse events associated with TXA in adults undergoing surgery.

PROSPERO

CRD 42018111762.

Complications of Tranexamic Acid in Orthopedic Lower Limb Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

OBJECTIVE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is increasingly used in orthopedic surgery to reduce blood loss; however, there are concerns about the risk of venous thromboembolic (VTE) complications. The aim of this study was to evaluate TXA safety in patients undergoing lower limb orthopedic surgical procedures.

DESIGN

A meta-analysis was performed on the PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases in January 2020 using the following string (Tranexamic acid) AND ((knee) OR (hip) OR (ankle) OR (lower limb)) to identify RCTs about TXA use in patients undergoing every kind of lower limb surgical orthopedic procedures, with IV, IA, or oral administration, and compared with a control arm to quantify the VTE complication rates.

RESULTS

A total of 140 articles documenting 9,067 patients receiving TXA were identified. Specifically, 82 studies focused on TKA, 41 on THA, and 17 on other surgeries, including anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, intertrochanteric fractures, and meniscectomies. The intravenous TXA administration protocol was studied in 111 articles, the intra-articular in 45, and the oral one in 7 articles. No differences in terms of thromboembolic complications were detected between the TXA and control groups neither in the overall population (2.4% and 2.8%, respectively) nor in any subgroup based on the surgical procedure and TXA administration route.

CONCLUSIONS

There is an increasing interest in TXA use, which has been recently broadened from the most common joint replacement procedures to the other types of surgeries. Overall, TXA did not increase the risk of VTE complications, regardless of the administration route, thus supporting the safety of using TXA for lower limb orthopedic surgical procedures.

Reduction of Blood Loss by Tranexamic Acid Following Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

This study involved a meta-analysis of 36 published studies to examine the efficacy of intravenous (IV) and intra-articular (IA) tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss, drain output, thromboembolic complications, and hospital stay following total hip and total knee arthroplasty. This study also evaluated whether treatment with a combination of both IA and IV TXA has an effect on these outcomes. Lastly, this study attempted to analyze the method and technique of TXA administration in order to establish a best practice for its use in reducing overall blood loss in arthroplasty procedures.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Library database were screened. Studies comparing IV TXA with IA TXA or with combined IV and IA TXA were included. Data including total blood loss, drain output, thromboembolic complications, and hospital stay, where available, were analyzed using meta-analysis with fixed effects. Results are presented as the standardized mean difference (SMD), and meta-regression was employed to explore plausible demographic contributions to heterogeneity.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight randomized controlled trials, 3 prospective cohort studies, and 5 retrospective cohort studies with 5,499 patients were included in this review. IA administration during total knee arthroplasty showed a significant advantage in terms of total blood loss (SMD = -0.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.027 to -0.02, I = 78.2%) and drain output (SMD = -0.30, 95% CI = -0.43 to -0.18). There was no significant difference between IV and IA administration in total hip arthroplasty. Combined IA plus IV TXA was associated with a significant reduction in blood loss versus IV TXA alone in both total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty. IV TXA dosing varied, as 14 (39%) of the studies used a weight-based approach while 22 (61%) used a standard dose. Twenty-seven (96%) of 28 studies of IA administration used standard dosing while 1 study followed a weight-based protocol. There was no difference in symptomatic thromboembolic complications, with overall rates in total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty of 1.0% and 1.0% for IV administration and 1.1% and 0.3% for IA administration, respectively. There was no difference in length of hospital stay for IV versus IA TXA administration.

CONCLUSIONS

IA TXA, either alone or in conjunction with IV TXA, reduces total blood loss and/or drain output in total knee arthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty. Optimal methodology remains to be clarified; however, there are substantial economic benefits of utilizing either IV or IA TXA, with greater cost benefits when using IA TXA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Optimal route for administering tranexamic acid in primary unilateral total hip arthroplasty: Results from a multicenter cohort study

AIM

This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of different tranexamic acid (TXA) routes following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

We collected data from the National Health Database on patients registered from January 2013 to September 2017. The patients were divided based on TXA administration route into a control group (without TXA), intravenous group, topical group and combined group. The primary outcome was transfusion; secondary outcomes were total blood loss, haemoglobin level, decrease in haemoglobin on postoperative day 3, and incidence of complications.

RESULTS

Data were collected on 7667 primary THA, 4662 with TXA and 3005 without TXA. The transfusion rate was 28.7% in the control group, 12.7% in the topical group, 8.9% in the intravenous group, and 6.1% in the combined group, and the inter-group differences were significant (P < .01). The combined group showed significantly smaller total blood loss (1.23 ± 0.52 L), smaller reduction in haemoglobin level (26.5 ± 11.1 g/L) and higher haemoglobin level on postoperative day 3 (107.0 ± 15.5 g/L) than the other three groups (P < .05). The three TXA groups showed significantly lower incidence of deep vein thrombosis than the control group (0.08% vs 0.47%, P = .001) as well as a lower rate of other complications (0.34% vs 0.67%, P = .044).

CONCLUSION

TXA is effective and safe to decrease blood loss and transfusion following primary THA, regardless of whether it is administered intravenously, topically or both. Intravenous or combined routes may produce better haemostatic effects, so they may be suggested in the absence of contraindications.

Comparison of intravenous, topical or combined routes of tranexamic acid administration in patients undergoing total knee and hip arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to compare the effects of intravenous, topical and combined routes of tranexamic acid (TXA) administration on blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA).

DESIGN

This was a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials (RCT) wherein the weighted mean difference (WMD) and relative risk (RR) were used for data synthesis applied in the random effects model. Stratified analyses based on the surgery type, region, intravenous and topical TXA dose and transfusion protocol were also conducted. The main outcomes included intraoperative and total blood loss volume, transfusion rate, low postoperative haemoglobin (Hb) level and postoperative Hb decline. However, the secondary outcomes included length of hospital stay (LOS) and/or occurrence of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

SETTING

We searched the PubMed, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL databases for RCTs that compared different routes of TXA administration.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients undergoing TKA or THA.

INTERVENTIONS

Intravenous, topical or combined intravenous and topical TXA.

RESULTS

Twenty-six RCTs were selected, and the intravenous route did not differ substantially from the topical route with respect to the total blood loss volume (WMD=30.92, p=0.31), drain blood loss (WMD=-34.53, p=0.50), postoperative Hb levels (WMD=-0.01, p=0.96), Hb decline (WMD=-0.39, p=0.08), LOS (WMD=0.15, p=0.38), transfusion rate (RR=1.08, p=0.75) and VTE occurrence (RR=1.89, p=0.15). Compared with the combined-delivery group, the single-route group had significantly increased total blood loss volume (WMD=198.07, p<0.05), greater Hb decline (WMD=0.56, p<0.05) and higher transfusion rates (RR=2.51, p<0.05). However, no significant difference was noted in the drain blood loss, postoperative Hb levels and VTE events between the two groups. The intravenous and topical routes had comparable efficacy and safety profiles.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of intravenous and topical TXA was relatively more effective in controlling bleeding without increased risk of VTE.

Comparative efficacy and safety of different hemostatic methods in total hip arthroplasty: a network meta-analysis

Background

It is unclear which kind of interventional therapy is the best when reducing blood loss in patients prepared for total hip arthroplasty (THA). We performed this network meta-analysis to rank the best intervention arm for blood loss control in THA patients.

Methods

We searched electronic databases about randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to compare three treatments (topical tranexamic acid (TXA), intravenous TXA, and topical fibrin sealant (FS)) versus placebo for the people prepared for THA. Traditional and network meta-analyses were performed. The quality assessment was conducted using Cochrane Collaboration’s tool. The network meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 13.0 software.

Results

Finally, a total of 32 RCTs were included in this network meta-analysis. Topical TXA, intravenous TXA, and topical FS significantly decreased the need for transfusion and total blood loss when compared with placebo. And intravenous TXA ranks the first hemostasis agent for reducing the need for transfusion and total blood loss. There was no significant difference between these three treatments (intravenous TXA, topical TXA, and topical FS) in the occurrence of deep venous thrombosis (DVT).

Conclusion

Intravenous TXA may be the best way to reduce the need for transfusion and total blood loss. More direct studies that focused on topical TXA versus FS are needed in the future.

Safety of intravenous tranexamic acid in patients undergoing majororthopaedic surgery: a meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Among the various pharmacological options to decrease peri-operative bleeding, tranexamic acid appears to be one of the most interesting. Several trials have consistently documented the efficacy of this synthetic drug in reducing the risk of blood loss and the need for allogeneic blood transfusion in patients undergoing total hip and knee arthroplasty. The safety of intravenous tranexamic acid in major orthopaedic surgery, particularly regarding the risk of venous thromboembolism, was systematically analysed in this review. A systematic search of the literature identified 73 randomised controlled trials involving 4,174 patients and 2,779 controls. The raw overall incidence of venous thromboembolism was 2.1% in patients who received intravenous tranexamic acid and 2.0% in controls. A meta-analytic pooling showed that the risk of venous thromboembolism in tranexamic acid-treated patients was not significantly different from that of controls (risk difference: 0.01%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: -0.05%, 0.07%; risk ratio: 1.067, 95% CI: 0.760-1.496). Other severe drug-related adverse events occurred very rarely (0.1%). In conclusion, the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis show that intravenous tranexamic acid is a safe pharmacological treatment to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements in patients undergoing major orthopaedic surgery.

Exclusion criteria and adverse events in perioperative trials of tranexamic acid: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an inexpensive therapy effective at minimizing perioperative blood loss and transfusion. However, it remains underutilized due to safety concerns. To date, no evidence-based guidelines exist identifying which patients should not receive TXA therapy. This study determined patient groups for whom safety information regarding TXA is lacking due to common exclusion from perioperative TXA trials.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

A systematic review searching the databases Medline, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and Clinicaltrials.gov was performed. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) administering systemic TXA perioperatively to elective or emergent surgery patients were eligible. Our primary outcome was to describe exclusion criteria of RCTs, and the secondary outcome was TXA safety. A descriptive synthesis of exclusion criteria was performed, and TXA safety was assessed by meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 268 eligible RCTs were included. Meta-analysis showed that systemic TXA did not increase risk of adverse events compared to placebo or no intervention (relative risk, 1.05; 95% confidence interval, 0.99-1.12). Patient groups commonly excluded from perioperative TXA trials, and thus potentially lacking TXA safety data, were those with major comorbidities, a history of thromboembolism, medication use affecting coagulation, TXA allergy, and coagulopathy. Exclusion of patients with major comorbidities may not be necessary; we showed that the risk of adverse events was similar in studies that excluded patients with major comorbidities and those that did not.

CONCLUSION

Sufficient evidence exists to develop perioperative guidelines for TXA use in many populations. Further studies evaluating perioperative TXA use in patients with a history of thromboembolism are warranted.

Comparison of three routes of administration of tranexamic acid in primary unilateral total knee arthroplasty: Analysis of a national database

INTRODUCTION

The ideal route for the administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) remains undecided. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of three routes of TXA following primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively collected patients' data through the National Health Database from January 2013 to September 2017. The patients were divided into a control group, intravenous group, topical group, and combined group according to the different routes of TXA. The primary outcome was the incidence of transfusion, and secondary outcomes were total blood loss, hemoglobin level and extent of hemoglobin decrease on postoperative day 3, and incidence of complications.

RESULTS

Of the total of 7133 primary TKA procedures collected, 4201 employed TXA and 2932 did not. The transfusion rate was 19.8% in the control group and 7.5% in the topical group, significantly higher than that in the intravenous (4.0%, p < 0.001) and combined (4.2%, p < 0.01) groups. The topical group had higher blood loss (0.97 ± 0.47 L), greater reduction in hemoglobin level (31.2 ± 10.1 g/L), and lower hemoglobin level (102.6 ± 12.7 g/L) on postoperative day 3, compared with the intravenous and combined groups (p < 0.05 for all). The differences between the intravenous and combined groups were not significant (p > 0.05). The incidence of deep vein thrombosis in the topical group (1.1%) was significantly higher than that in the control (0.4%, p = 0.007) and intravenous groups (0.3%, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous and combined administration of TXA was equivalent in reducing blood loss and transfusion requirement, and superior to topical routes.

Is tranexamic acid toxic to articular cartilage when administered topically?

Aims

The intra-articular administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be effective in reducing blood loss in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty and anterior cruciate reconstruction. The effects on human articular cartilage, however, remains unknown. Our aim, in this study, was to investigate any detrimental effect of TXA on chondrocytes, and to establish if there was a safe dose for its use in clinical practice. The hypothesis was that TXA would cause a dose-dependent damage to human articular cartilage.

Materials and Methods

The cellular morphology, adhesion, metabolic activity, and viability of human chondrocytes when increasing the concentration (0 mg/ml to 40 mg/ml) and length of exposure to TXA (0 to 12 hours) were analyzed in a 2D model. This was then repeated, excluding cellular adhesion, in a 3D model and confirmed in viable samples of articular cartilage.

Results

Increasing concentrations above 20 mg/ml resulted in atypical morphology, reduced cellular adhesion and metabolic activity associated with increased chondrocyte death. However, the cell matrix was not affected by the concentration of TXA or the length of exposure, and offered cellular protection for concentrations below 20 mg/ml.

Conclusion

These results show that when in vitro chondrocytes are exposed to higher concentrations of TXA, such as that expected following recommended intra-articular administration, cytotoxicity is observed. This effect is dose-dependent, such that a tissue concentration of 10 mg/ml to 20 mg/ml could be expected to be safe. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:404–12.

The efficacy and safety of topical tranexamic acid: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an effective hemostatic agent used for the reduction of blood loss and transfusion. However, the safety profile of TXA remains in question due to a potential increased risk of venous thromboembolism. By applying TXA topically as opposed to intravenously, systemic absorption may be reduced and unwanted side-effects mitigated. The objective of our review is to investigate the efficacy and safety of topically applied tranexamic acid compared to both placebo, and the intravenous administration. Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, ISI Web of Science, PubMed, and Clinicaltrials.gov were searched from inception to November, 2016. We included randomized controlled trials that compared topical tranexamic acid to either placebo (or standard care) or intravenous administration, in adult patients. Surgical and non-surgical trials were included. Abstract, full-text selection, data extraction and risk of bias assessment were all performed in duplicate. In total, 67 studies involving 6,034 patients met inclusion criteria. The majority of trials evaluated orthopedic procedures. Compared to placebo, the administration of topical TXA significantly reduced the odds of receiving a blood transfusion (pooled OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.20 to 0.38; P < 0.001) and significantly reduced mean blood loss (WMD -276.6, 95% CI -327.8 to -225.4; P < 0.0001). When compared to the intravenous administration, there was no difference between the two groups in terms of transfusion requirements (pooled OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.46; P=0.88) or blood loss (WMD -21.95, 95% CI -66.61 to 27.71; P=0.34). There was no difference in the odds of developing a venous thromboembolic complication between the topical TXA and control groups (pooled OR=0.78, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.29; P=0.33) or the topical and intravenous groups (pooled OR=0.75, 95% CI 0.39 to 1.46; P=0.40). The topical application of TXA effectively reduces both transfusion risk and blood loss compared to placebo, without increasing thromboembolic risks. There were no major differences between topical and intravenous tranexamic acid with respect to safety and efficacy, and both were superior to placebo with regards to blood loss and transfusion requirements. Further study of the topical application is required outside of the field of orthopedics.

Tranexamic acid in total hip arthroplasty: Mixed treatment comparisons of randomized controlled trials and cohort studies

Background

The present study is a network meta-analysis of various routes of tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients with total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods

Randomized controlled trials and cohort studies evaluating TXA in patients with THA were included. Number of patients requiring blood transfusion was the primary outcome.

Results

Pooled estimate for TXA use against placebo for blood transfusion rate was 0.30 [0.23, 0.39] favoring TXA. Maximum reduction in the risk of blood transfusion was observed with topical plus intra-operative intravenous TXA.

Conclusion

Combined topical and intravenous TXA during surgery may perform better than other modes in patients undergoing THA.

Influence of single-dose intravenous tranexamic acid on total hip replacement : A study on transfusions, collateral complications, and readmissions

INTRODUCTION

To determine the effects of tranexamic acid (TXA) on transfusions in patients undergoing hip replacement with a hybrid or cementless prosthesis.

METHODS

A group of 172 consecutive patients aged 18 years or older who underwent elective hip replacement with uncemented or hybrid prostheses, undergoing surgery between January 2012 and January 2014 by the same primary surgeon and anesthesiologist, were retrospectively included. TXA (1 g) was administered immediately before incision in the TXA group. Primary variables included number of red blood cell transfusions and the influence of TXA for each type of prosthesis. Secondary variables included hematocrit at discharge, length of hospital stay, thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, seizures, and death.

RESULTS

Average transfusion was 1.53 units/patient in the control group compared to 0.6 units/patient in the TXA group (z = 6.29; U = 1640.5; p < 0.0001). TXA use was significantly correlated with the number of units transfused (p < 0.0001, 95% CI -1.24 to -0.68). Odds risk reduction for transfusion was observed during surgery (OR: 0.14; CI 0.06-0.29; p < 0.0001) and during the rest of hospital stay (OR: 0.11; CI 0.01-0.96; p = 0.046). Both hybrid and cementless prostheses that received TXA were transfused less than control groups (0.57 ± 1 vs. 1.7 ± 1 p < 0.01 and 0.65 ± 1 vs. 1.24 ± 1 p < 0.01). No difference was observed between the groups regarding adverse effects. Hematocrit values at discharge and length of hospital stay were similar between groups. No deaths were observed during hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

TXA reduced transfusions without increasing the prevalence of adverse effects. This reduction was observed during surgery and the following days of hospital stay for both for hybrid and cementless prosthesis.

Bone-strengthening pill (BSP) promotes bone cell and chondrocyte repair, and the clinical and experimental study of BSP in the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head

About 1 in 3 people suffer from bone and joint disease, which is a disease of bone and cartilage cells. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is a typical example of bone and joint disease involving bone cell necrosis. Osteonecrosis of the femoral head leads to the occurrence of premature osteoarthritis of the hip and collapse of the cartilage cells, and there is currently no effective drug treatment available. In order to study the effects of "bone-strengthening pill" (BSP) on the repair of bone and cartilage cells, we investigated the potential effects of the herbal mixture BSP in an animal model of avascular necrosis of the femoral head and in patients. Results showed that 90% of rats injected with prednisone developed ONFH, whereas BSP administration prevented ONFH development in 70% of prednisone-injected rats. We evaluated the constituents of BSP by HPLC fingerprinting. We also evaluated the clinical efficacy of BSP in a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial of 300 patients with ONFH. The response rate was found to be higher in the treatment group than in the control group, with a response rate of 82% in the treatment group. Treatment with BSP also significantly reduced pain, improved hip function, reduced lameness, and improved pathology by X-ray and MRI analysis, compared with patients who did not receive BSP. These results suggest that BSP treatment inhibits and reverses necrosis of the femoral head bone cells and cartilage cells to repair the femoral head, promote the repair of bone and cartilage diseases.

Tranexamic acid in total hip arthroplasty: A recursive cumulative meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials and assessment of publication bias

INTRODUCTION

TXA has been evaluated in THA in several randomized controlled trials for the past 16 years. We attempted to evaluate the trends in the evidence using recursive cumulative meta-analysis and publication bias using Rosenthal and 'Trim and Fill' methods.

METHODS

Electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled clinical trials comparing TXA with either placebo (or no TXA administration) or TXA, administered through different routes in patients with osteoarthritis or osteonecrosis of the hip who underwent THA. We considered the total number of patients requiring blood transfusion as the clinical outcome for both the analyses and used quality effects model for assessing the changes in the pooled estimates with addition of new clinical trial data. We also assessed the publication bias by plotting individual study estimates with the standard errors using Rosenthal and 'Trim and Fill'methods.

RESULTS

A total of 20 studies were included. The pooled cumulative meta-analysis indicates that from 2014 the addition of estimate from new studies in the following years is only narrowing the confidence interval without any significant change in the point estimate. Rosenthal fail-safe-N for the comparisons of intravenous bolus TXA, intra-operative and post-operative intravenous TXA and topical with control groups were 54, 6 and 16 respectively. Fail-safe-N for the combined intravenous and topical TXA with intravenous TXA alone was 13.

CONCLUSION

Adequate evidence exists supporting the use of intravenous TXA in reducing the need for blood transfusion in THA. There is possible existence of small studies with null effects evaluating the use of TXA in THA.

Comparison of intravenous versus topical tranexamic acid in primary total hip and knee arthroplasty: An updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The appropriate route for administering tranexamic acid in primary total hip (THA) and knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of topical or intravenous tranexamic acid.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library databases were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing topical and intravenous tranexamic acid following primary THA or TKA. Primary outcomes were transfusion frequency and maximum drop in hemoglobin. Other parameters included total blood loss (TBL), hidden blood loss, drainage volume, hemoglobin level on postoperative day 1 (POD 1), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism (PE), wound complications and other adverse events. Data were analyzed using Rev Man 5.2.

RESULTS

A total of 18 RCTs involving TKA and 4 RCTs involving THA, corresponding to approximately 2260 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. No significant difference between topical and intravenous tranexamic acid was found in transfusion requirement (RR 1.14, 95%CI 0.87 to 1.50, p=0.35). The maximum drop in hemoglobin was significantly smaller in the intravenous group than in the topical group (MD 0.33g/dL, 95%CI 0.07 to 0.58, p=0.01); similar results were observed for the subset of studies involving THA (MD 0.49g/dL, 95%CI 0.28 to 0.70, p<0.001) and the subset involving TKA (MD 0.30g/dL, 95%CI 0.02 to 0.59, p=0.04). The topical and intravenous groups did not differ significantly in TBL, drainage volume, hemoglobin level on POD 1, DVT, PE, wound complications or other adverse events.

CONCLUSION

The available evidence indicates similar transfusion requirements and safety for topical and intravenous tranexamic acid in THA and TKA. However, intravenous injection seems to be associated with a smaller maximum drop in hemoglobin.

Can tranexamic acid reduce blood loss in cervical laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation and bone grafting: a retrospective observational study

To assess the safety and efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) for decreasing perioperative blood loss in cervical laminectomy with lateral mass screw fixation and bone grafting (CLF), in which all surgical procedures are identical.From November 2014 to April 2016, we performed a retrospective comparative analysis of 119 patients with multilevel cervical spondylotic myelopathy who had undergone a CLF from C3 to C6 in our center. All surgeries were performed on the patients using a consistent, standard procedure. Patients were divided into control (46) and TXA (73) groups according to whether or not they had received TXA treatment before and during surgery. Demographic profiles of patients such as gender, age, body weight, height, and body mass index were collated and differences between the 2 groups compared. Preoperative and postoperative hematological data in addition to intraoperative and postoperative blood loss were compared between the 2 groups. Additionally, any complications of TXA were also evaluated to assess safety.There was no statistically significant difference in demographic traits between the 2 groups. Intraoperative blood loss in the TXA group (179.66 ± 81.45 mL) was significantly lower than that of the control group (269.13 ± 94.68 mL, P < 0.001), as was postoperative blood loss (108.08 ± 44.31 and 132.83 ± 49.39 mL, respectively; P = 0.005). Total blood loss in the TXA group (287.74 ± 115.40 mL) was also significantly lower than that of the control group (401.96 ± 127.88, P < 0.01). No major intraoperative complications occurred in any of the cases.TXA significantly reduced perioperative blood loss in CLF with no major side effects.