One step closer to sparing total blood loss and transfusion rate in total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of different methods of tranexamic acid administration

Topical Fibrin Sealant (Tisseel@) Does Not Provide a Synergic Blood-Conservation Effect with Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty-A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and Objectives: The efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing perioperative blood loss during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is well established. However, the potential synergistic blood-conservation effect of topical fibrin sealant (Tisseel@) remains unclear. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the combination of Tisseel and TXA during TKA. Materials and Methods: A single-blinded, prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 patients (100 knees) undergoing primary TKA. Participants were randomly assigned to either the TXA group (n = 50), receiving intravenous (IV) TXA, or the Tisseel@ + TXA group (n = 50), receiving intra-articular Tisseel@ combined with IV TXA. The primary outcomes included blood transfusion rate, decrease in Hb level, calculated blood loss, and estimated total postoperative blood loss. Secondary outcomes involved assessing clinical differences between the groups. Results: The transfusion rate was zero in both groups. The average estimated blood loss in the Tisseel@ + TXA group was 0.463 ± 0.2422 L, which was similar to that of the TXA group at 0.455 ± 0.2522 L. The total calculated blood loss in the Tisseel@ + TXA group was 0.259 ± 0.1 L, compared with the TXA group's 0.268 ± 0.108 L. The mean hemoglobin reduction in the first 24 h postoperatively was 1.57 ± 0.83 g/dL for the Tisseel@ + TXA group and 1.46 ± 0.82 g/dL for the TXA-only group. The reduction in blood loss in the topical Tisseel@ + TXA group was not significantly different from that achieved in the TXA-only group. The clinical results of TKA up to the 6-week follow-up were comparable between the groups. Conclusions: The combination of the topical fibrin sealant Tisseel@ and perioperative IV TXA administration, following the described protocol, demonstrated no significant synergistic blood-conservation effect in patients undergoing TKR.

Use of tranexamic acid in medial open wedge high tibial osteotomy

PURPOSE

Aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on the outcome after medial open wedge osteotomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A prospective non-randomized comparative study with 52 patients has been performed. In both treatment groups, the same surgical technique for the medial open wedge HTO was used. In group 1 (N: 26) the patients received 1 g TXA i.v. preoperatively, in group 2 (N: 26) no TXA was given. Primary outcome measure was the decrease in hemoglobin concentration. Secondary outcome criteria were postoperative pain, intraarticular effusion (measured by ultrasound), range of motion (ROM) at discharge, peri- and postoperative complications and the KOOS PS (pre- and postoperatively at 1 year follow up).

RESULTS

Hemoglobin decrease was significantly less in the TXA group compared to the non TXA group. Postoperative pain and intraarticular effusion was also significantly lower and ROM at discharge was higher in the TXA group. There was no group difference in peri- and postoperative complications and the pre- and postoperatively KOOS PS.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the present study show the systemic application of 1 g TXA reduces hemoglobin drop and postoperative morbidity (pain, intraarticular effusion, and ROM) after tibial open wedge HTO.

Transfusion Trends of Knee Arthroplasty in Korea: A Nationwide Study Using the Korean National Health Insurance Service Sample Data

Knee arthroplasties are strongly associated with blood transfusion to compensate for perioperative bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate trends of transfusion associated with knee arthroplasties using nationwide data of the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort (NHIS-NSC). Using data from the nationwide claims database of the Health Insurance Review Assessment Service managed by the NHIS, 50,553 knee arthroplasties under three categories (total knee replacement arthroplasty, uni-knee replacement arthroplasty, and revision arthroplasty) from 2012 to 2018 were identified. Overall transfusion rate, transfusion count, proportion of each type of transfusion, and cost associated with each type of operation were investigated. Overall transfusion rate was 83.4% (5897/7066) in 2012, 82.7% (5793/7001) in 2013, 79.6% (5557/6978) in 2014, 75.9% (5742/7557) in 2015, 73.1% (6095/8337) in 2016, 68.2% (4187/6139) in 2017, and 64.6% (4271/6613) in 2018. The proportion of each type of transfusion was 1.8% for fresh frozen plasma, 0.5% for platelets, and 97.7% for red blood cells. The average cost of transfusion was $109.1 ($123 in 2012, $124 in 2013, $123.3 in 2014, $110.6 in 2015, $100 in 2016, $92.9 in 2017, and $90.1 in 2018). In this nationally representative study of trends in transfusion associated with knee arthroplasty, we observed significantly high rates of blood transfusion among patients undergoing knee arthroplasties. Although the overall rate of transfusion had declined, the allogeneic transfusion rate was still high from 2012 to 2018 in Korea. Thus, surgeons need to develop various patient blood management plans and minimize the use of allogeneic transfusion when performing knee arthroplasties.

The role of tranexamic acid in breast and body contouring surgery: a review of the literature

Background: Postoperative seroma and haematoma are two of the most common complications follow-ing large surface area surgeries. A review of the literature was performed to evaluate evidence for the use of tranexamic acid in reducing postoperative seroma and haematoma formation in breast surgery and body contouring surgery. Methods A literature search was performed using MEDLINE, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Review, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Ef-fect (DARE) and PubMed in English from 1 Jan 1990–30 Mar 2020. The search terms ‘TXA’, ‘breast reduction’, ‘mammaplasty’, ‘breast implants’, ‘breast implantation’, ‘breast reconstruction’, ‘mastectomy’, ‘tissue ex-pansion’, ‘body contouring’, ‘breast’ and ‘abdominoplasty’ were used alone and in combination. Results: A total of six articles were found including three randomised controlled trials, two cohort studies and one retrospective study. Two ongoing trials were found on The Cochrane Central Register of Con-trolled Trials (CENTRAL). No systematic reviews were found. Conclusion: Literature surrounding the use of TXA in breast and body contouring surgery is sparse com-pared to what is available in other surgical sub-specialties. The literature available shows promising results with the use of TXA in controlling haematoma, drain output and seroma formation in breast surgery and body contouring surgery with minimal morbidity in these patient groups.

Topical Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: Does It Augment the Effect of the Intravenous Administration in Patients with Moderate-to-High Risk of Bleeding? A Randomized Clinical Trial

This study aimed to compare the superimposed clinical value of topical tranexamic acid (TXA) application when it is simultaneously combined with intravenous (IV) administration versus the use of either IV TXA alone or IA TXA alone during primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in patients with moderate-to-high risk of bleeding. We hypothesized that the combined administration approach will result in a more adequate reduction in the perioperative blood loss and blood transfusion rate. Ninety-four patients undergoing primary TKA were randomly allocated into intra-articular (IA) alone, IV alone, and combined group. We used 2 g of IV TXA in the IV TXA alone and combined groups 10 minutes before tourniquet deflation. However, we applied 1.5 g TXA in 100 mL isotonic saline half topically before arthrotomy closure and half retrogradely after wound closure through the drain. Follow-up period was 6 weeks. The primary outcome measures included the drainage blood volume, total blood loss, hidden blood loss, intraoperative blood loss, and the allogenic transfusion rate. Secondary outcomes included postoperative hemoglobin drop, amount of transfused blood units, thromboembolism, and wound complications. Combined administration of TXA provided significantly better results in terms of blood volume collected by the drain, total blood loss, and hidden blood loss (p < 0.01). Contrarily, the intraoperative blood loss, the allogeneic transfusion rate, and the number of transfused units were similar in all groups (p > 0.05). The subgroup analysis revealed that a combined IA and IV TXA administration significantly reduced the total blood loss in patients with either moderate or high risk of bleeding. Moreover, the degree of hemoglobin drop was significantly lesser with the combined approach. No thromboembolic complications or wound infection occurred. In conclusion, the combined use of topical and IV tranexamic acid resulted in a significant reduction in postoperative blood loss and hemoglobin level following TKA but did not influence the rate of allogeneic blood transfusion. This is a Level I, therapeutic study.

Efficacy and Systemic Absorption of Peri-articular Versus Intra-articular Administration of Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is widely accepted as an effective method for reducing blood loss after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). As different routes of local TXA administration have been proposed to minimize systemic complications, we aimed to investigate the effectiveness and systemic absorption of peri-articular (PA) and intra-articular (IA) administration of TXA after primary TKA.

Methods

In a randomized controlled trial of patients scheduled for unilateral primary TKA, 108 were assigned to receive PA-TXA (15 mg/kg), IA-TXA (2 g), or no TXA injection. We assessed total blood loss, blood transfusion rate, and hemoglobin level changes 48 hours after surgery. Postoperative serum TXA levels, complications, and clinical symptoms of venous thromboembolism events were also evaluated.

Results

Total blood loss, hemoglobin level decreases, and blood transfusion rates in both TXA groups were significantly lower than those in the control group (P < .05), without significant differences between PA and IA groups 48 hours after surgery. Serum TXA levels in the IA group were significantly higher than those in the PA cohort at 2 hours (28.2 mg/L vs 15.6 mg/L, P < .01) and 24 hours (4.4 mg/L vs 1.7 mg/L, P < .01) postoperatively. No wound complications were found in both TXA groups, but 14% of the control group developed subcutaneous ecchymoses. No evidence of venous thromboembolism events was reported.

Conclusions

PA-TXA is an excellent alternative route of local TXA injection to decrease postoperative blood loss after TKA. PA-TXA demonstrated lower levels of postoperative serum TXA, which may be beneficial for high-risk patients.

Greater Blood Loss in Contemporary Cementless Total Knee Arthroplasty than Cemented Total Knee Arthroplasty despite Tranexamic Acid Use: A Match-Controlled Retrospective Study

The purpose of this retrospective study was to assess whether tranexamic acid (TXA) reduces blood loss in cementless total knee arthroplasty (TKA) comparable to levels observed with cemented fixation. After exclusions from 109 consecutive TKAs, 76 cementless knees were matched to 78 cemented knees of identical implant and surgeon. Blood loss with and without TXA was compared. There was no difference between cohorts in sex, age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status classification, or preoperative hemoglobin (p ≥ 0.119). Use of TXA reduced median drain output by only 205 mL in cementless knees compared to 470 mL in cemented knees (p < 0.001). Median drain output per hour was highest in cementless knees without TXA (39.5 mL) followed by cemented knees without TXA (38.2 mL), cementless knees with TXA (28.5 mL), and cemented knees with TXA (12.7 mL; p < 0.001). Hemoglobin drop and total blood loss did not differ between cohorts regardless of TXA use. Cementless fixation in TKA resulted in greater intra-articular blood loss as measured by drain output, despite the use of TXA. Further research is warranted to examine whether a higher TXA dose, TXA delivery method, or the application of bone wax sealant would mitigate blood loss in cementless TKA, and subsequently whether intra-articular blood accumulation resulting in postoperative hemarthrosis affects recovery, function, and clinical outcomes.

[Comparison of two doses of intra-articular tranexamic acid on postoperative bleeding in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized clinical trial]

INTRODUCTION

Tranexamic Acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic that inhibits the fibrinolytic activity of plasmin is used to decrease perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in orthopedic surgery. The aim of our study was to compare postoperative bleeding in two intra-articular doses (1g and 2g) of tranexamic acid in adult patients undergoing unilateral total knee replacement.

METHOD

We conducted a single-operator, randomized, and controlled, double-blind study in two groups. The G1 group received 1g of intra-articular TXA and the G2 group 2g of intra-articular TXA. Both groups received 15mg.kg^-1 IV before the surgical incision (TXA induction dose) and then 10mg.kg^-1, orally, 6 and 12hours after the induction dose of TXA. The primary endpoint was bleeding measured by blood loss in postoperative drainage. Secondary outcomes were change in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels on the first and third postoperative days, and the need for transfusion during hospitalization.

RESULTS

In total, 100 patients were randomized, and 100 were included in the analysis. Blood loss in postoperative drainage was similar in both groups (200±50 vs. 250±50mL, G1 and G2 groups respectively). Change in hematocrit and hemoglobin values (% of change) between preoperative and day 3 were not statically significant between groups G1 and G2 (18±5 vs. 21±4; 21±7 vs. 22±5 respectively). No patients received blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study did not show superiority of 2g of intra-articular tranexamic acid compared to 1g. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT04085575.

Comparison of two doses of intra-articular tranexamic acid on postoperative bleeding in total knee arthroplasty: a randomized clinical trial

Introduction

Method

Results

Conclusions

Tibial cement mantle thickness is not affected by tourniquetless total knee arthroplasty when performed with tranexamic acid

PURPOSE

Evidence exists that tourniquet use leads to increased cement penetration in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) due to decreased blood and fat in the bone during cementation. The use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has led to decreased blood loss and transfusion rates. The purpose of this study was to determine if the use of a tourniquet while utilising modern TXA protocols affects the tibial cement mantle penetration.

METHODS

140 patients who underwent primary TKA with and without a tourniquet (70 in each group) were retrospectively reviewed. All patients received a standard TXA protocol. The primary outcome measure was cumulative depth of cement mantle penetration of the tibial plateau on post-operative radiographs. Secondary outcome measures included post-operative change in haemoglobin and hematocrit levels, blood loss, and transfusion rates.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in age, sex, or pre-operative haemoglobin or hematocrit levels between groups. Tourniquet use resulted in significantly lower blood loss (100.0 mL versus 154.7 mL, p < 0.001), and significantly reduced drop in haemoglobin (1.8 g/dL vs 2.5 g/dL, p < 0.001) and hematocrit (5.7% vs 7.4%, p = 0.04) levels. However, depth of tibial cement mantle penetration did not differ between the tourniquet group (15.3 mm) and non-tourniquet group (15.0 mm, p value n.s.). No patient in either group required a blood transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Tourniquet use in primary TKA results in decreased blood loss and less change in pre-operative vs post-operative haemoglobin and hematocrit levels. However, with the use of TXA, not using a tourniquet resulted in similar cement mantle penetration around the tibial component as with a tourniquet.

Serum Concentrations and Pharmacokinetics of Tranexamic Acid after Two Means of Topical Administration in Massive Weight Loss Skin-Reducing Surgery

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Background:

Topical administration of tranexamic acid to reduce bleeding is receiving increasing attention, as it is inexpensive, simple, and possibly beneficial in most surgery. Concerns regarding potential systemic adverse effects such as thromboembolic events and seizures may prevent general use of tranexamic acid. Although serum concentrations after topical application are assumed to be low, proper pharmacokinetic studies of tranexamic acid after topical application are lacking.

Methods:

The authors have investigated systemic absorption of tranexamic acid after two means of topical administration in patients undergoing abdominoplasty after massive weight loss: a bolus of 200 ml of 5 mg/ml into the wound cavity versus moistening the wound surface with 20 ml of 25 mg/ml. Twelve patients were recruited in each group. Serum concentrations achieved were compared with those after administration of 1 g as an intravenous bolus to arthroplasty patients. Serial blood samples for tranexamic acid analysis were obtained for up to 24 hours.

Results:

After intravenous administration, the peak serum concentration was 66.1 ± 13.0 µg/ml after 6 ± 2 minutes. Peak serum concentration after topical moistening was 5.2 ± 2.6 µg/ml after 80 ± 33 minutes, and in the topical bolus group, it was 4.9 ± 1.8 µg/ml after 359 ± 70 minutes. Topical moistening resulted in homogenous and predictable absorption across the individuals included, whereas topical bolus administration caused variable and unpredictable serum concentrations.

Conclusion:

Topical administration of tranexamic acid in patients undergoing abdominoplasty results in low serum concentrations, which are highly unlikely to cause systemic effects.

Transfusion trends in hip arthroplasty in Korea: a nationwide study by the Korean National Health Insurance Service

BACKGROUND

Hip arthroplasties are strongly associated with blood transfusion to compensate for perioperative bleeding. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the trends in transfusion associated with hip arthroplasties, using nationwide data supplied by the National Health Insurance Service.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We used data from nationwide claims database of the Health Insurance Review Assessment Service. The data managed by the National Health Insurance Service were used to identify 161,934 hip arthroplasties under three categories, including bipolar hemiarthroplasty, total hip arthroplasty, and revision arthroplasty, from 2007 to 2015. The transfusion rates, transfusion amounts, the proportion of transfusion, and cost associated with each type of operation were investigated and stratified according to age, sex, hospital type, and region.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients receiving any allogeneic transfusion was 81.1% in 9 years. The overall proportion of transfusion was 7% fresh frozen plasma, 12% platelets, and 77% RBCs. The average count of transfusions was 4.1 in bipolar hemiarthroplasty (343,815/83,729), 4.3 in total hip arthroplasty (196,869/46,097), and 8.7 in revision arthroplasty (35,044/4,024) from 2007 to 2015.

CONCLUSION

In this nationally representative study of trends in transfusion associated with hip arthroplasty, we observed significantly high rates of blood transfusion among patients undergoing hip arthroplasties. Although the overall amount of transfusion declined, the allogeneic transfusion rate was still high from 2007 to 2015 in Korea, and higher than other countries are reporting.

Combined intravenous and intra-articular tranexamic acid administration in total knee arthroplasty for preventing blood loss and hyperfibrinolysis: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a surgical procedure to replace the weight-bearing surfaces of the knee joint to relieve pain and disability. However, blood loss and fibrinolytic activity, accounting for a poor prognosis following TKA operation, were relieved by fibrinolytic inhibitor tranexamic acid (TXA). For a better application of TXA function, we explored the effect of intravenous injection (IV) of TXA combined with intra-articular injection (IA) of TXA in patients after TKA.

METHODS

Patients admitted from Weifang People's Hospital from January 2015 to December 2016 who received TKA were injected with 20 mg/kg TXA by IV before TKA (n = 50), 3.0 g TXA by IA after TKA (n = 50), or combination of 20 mg/kg TXA by IV before TKA and 3.0 g TXA by IA after TKA (n = 50). Knee function was assessed using HSS, KSS, NASS, and ROM. In addition, the total blood loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), maximum hemoglobin (Hb) drop, fibrinolytic activity, as well as incidence of thromboembolism were measured. The patients were followed up for 6 months. The deadline for follow-up was June 2017 and the incidence of thromboembolism events within 6 months after operation was counted.

RESULTS

HSS, KSS, NASS scores, and ROM were elevated after patients receiving TKA. Patients received IV plus IA TXA has decreased TBL, HBL, and maximum Hb drop than those received IV TXA-alone and IA TXA-alone, with reductions in FDP and D-dimer, indicating that IV plus IA TXA injection is superior to prevent blood loss and hyperfibrinolysis during TKA. Age, sex, type of femoral prosthesis, and the injection method of TXA were risk factors for HBL of patients after receiving TKA.

CONCLUSIONS

The aforementioned results demonstrate that TKA is an effective surgery, and IV plus IA TXA injection functions more effectively in reducing blood loss and fibrinolytic activity in patients, which is a clinical factor of occult hemorrhage.

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.

Reducing Blood Loss in Revision Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasty: Tranexamic Acid Is Effective in Aseptic Revisions and in Second-Stage Reimplantations for Periprosthetic Infection

Introduction

The aim of the study was to determine the usefulness of tranexamic acid (TXA) in revision total hip arthroplasty (rTHA) and revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA). We analyzed the perioperative blood loss with and without TXA in aseptic rTHA and rTKA as well as in second-stage reimplantation for hip and knee periprosthetic infection.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective cohort study, 147 patients receiving TXA (96 rTHA, 51 rTKA) were compared to a retrospective cohort of 155 patients without TXA (103 rTHA, 52 rTKA). The TXA regimen consisted of a preoperative bolus of 10 mg/kg bodyweight (BW) TXA plus 1 mg/kgBW/h perioperatively. Given blood products were documented and the perioperative blood loss was calculated. Thromboembolic events were registered until three months postoperatively. In subgroups, the effects of TXA were separately analyzed in 215 aseptic revisions as well as in 87 reimplantations in two-stage revisions for periprosthetic infection.

Results

Both TXA groups showed a significantly reduced mean blood loss compared to the respective control groups. The TXA group of rTHA patients had a mean blood loss of 2916 ml ± 1226 ml versus 3611 ml ± 1474 ml in the control group (p<.001). For the TXA group of rTKA patients, mean calculated blood loss was 2756 ml ± 975 ml compared to 3441 ml ± 1100 ml in the control group (p=.0012). A significantly reduced blood loss was also found in the TXA subgroups for aseptic and septic revision procedures. No thromboembolic events were recorded among the TXA groups.

Conclusions

There is a significant reduction of perioperative blood loss under TXA influence without an increased incidence of adverse events. The standard use of TXA can be recommended in aseptic hip and knee revision arthroplasties as well as in second-stage reimplantations for periprosthetic infection.

Efficacy and safety of topical tranexamic acid in knee arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is commonly used to control postoperative blood loss in total knee arthroplasty. In order to avoid adverse effects associated with intravenous administration, topical use has been proposed as an alternative. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical TXA in total knee arthroplasty.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total of 90 patients scheduled for unilateral total knee arthroplasty were included in a prospective randomised study. All surgeries were performed under spinal anaesthesia, tourniquet and the same postoperative protocol. Patients were allocated to one of the 3 groups according to the application of TXA: group A (n=30) 1g of topical TXA; group B (n=30) 1g of TXA intravenous and in group C or the control group (n=30) no drug was administrated. Parameters related to blood loss and drain outputs were compared between the 3 groups.

RESULTS

The results revealed that post-operative decrease in haemoglobin level was significantly lower in group A (1.95g/dL) than group B (2.25g/dL) and group C (2.96g/dL), P<.01. Total postoperative blood loss was lower in group A (195mL) than group B (466mL) and group C (718mL), P<.01. There was no significant difference in complications and allogenic blood transfusion rate between the 3 groups.

CONCLUSIONS

According to the results, topical application of 1g TXA significantly reduced blood loss in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty more than intravenous or no administration of TXA.

Does tranexamic acid increase the risk of thromboembolism after bilateral simultaneous total knee arthroplasties in Asian Population?

PURPOSE

To ascertain whether tranexamic acid reduces the blood loss and transfusion rate and volumes; increase the prevalence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT); and investigate factors associated with DVT in patients undergoing primary bilateral total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) without use of chemical thromboprophylaxis.

METHODS

There were 874 patients (1748 knees) in the control group who did not receive tranexamic acid and 871 patients (1742 knees) in the study group who received tranexamic acid. Mechanical compression device was applied without any chemical thromboprophylaxis. Transfusion rates and volumes were recorded. DVT was diagnosed using both sonogram and venogram at 7 or 8 day post-operatively.

RESULTS

Intra- and post-operative blood loss and transfusion volumes were significantly lower in the tranexamic acid group. The prevalence of DVT was 14% (245 of 1748 knees) in the control group and 18% (314 of 1742 knees) in the tranexamic acid group. Pre- and post-operative perfusion lung scans revealed no evidence of PE in any patients in either group. Coagulation or thrombophilic data or molecular genetic testing was not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

The use of tranexamic acid reduces the volume of blood transfusion and does not increase the prevalence of DVT or PE in the patients who did not receive routine chemical thromboprophylaxis after primary bilateral simultaneous sequential TKAs in Asian patients.

Good results with minimally invasive unicompartmental knee resurfacing after 10-year follow-up

The current study was designed to determine (1) 10-year implant survival and (2) patient's self-reported functional outcome in a single surgeon's consecutive cohort of patients who had undergone minimally invasive unicondylar resurfacing with a modified cementation technique utilizing a cobalt-chromium femur/inlaid all-PE tibia, fixed-bearing unicompartmental prosthesis. We included 344 consecutive patients (361 knees) who had received the study device between January 2002 and December 2005 in this retrospective study. After 10 years, 78 patients (78 knees) had died, 59 (59 knees) were lost to follow-up and four (four knees) did not participate. Thirteen knees (11 patients) were revised after a mean of 5.8 ± 1.9 years. Hence, the study population at follow-up comprised 192 patients (207 knees). Ten-year implant survival was 94.6% (95% confidence interval, 90.9-96.8%). The Forgotten Joint Score and Oxford Knee Score were 68.9 ± 28.9 and 39 ± 9.1, respectively. Excellent survivorship and clinical outcomes were obtained with UKA with an inlaid all-PE tibia with a modified cementation technique.

Multiple boluses of intravenous tranexamic acid to reduce hidden blood loss and the inflammatory response following enhanced-recovery primary total hip arthroplasty: a randomised clinical trial

AIMS

The aim of this study was to examine the efficacy and safety of multiple boluses of intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TXA) on the hidden blood loss (HBL) and inflammatory response following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 150 patients were allocated randomly to receive a single bolus of 20 mg/kg IV TXA before the incision (group A), a single bolus followed by a second bolus of 1 g IV-TXA three hours later (group B) or a single bolus followed by two boluses of 1 g IV-TXA three and six hours later (group C). All patients were treated using a standard peri-operative enhanced recovery protocol. Primary outcomes were HBL and the level of haemoglobin (Hb) as well as the levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) as markers of inflammation. Secondary outcomes included the length of stay in hospital and the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE).

RESULTS

The mean HBL was significantly lower in group C (402.13 ml standard deviation (sd) 225.97) than group A (679.28 ml sd 277.16, p < 0.001) or B (560.62 ml sd 295.22, p = 0.010). The decrease in the level of Hb between the pre-operative baseline and the level on the third post-operative day was 30.82 g/L (sd 6.31 g/L) in group A, 27.16 g/L (sd 6.83) in group B and 21.98 g/L (sd 3.72) in group C. This decrease differed significantly among the three groups (p < 0.01). The mean level of CRP was significantly lower in group C than in the other two groups on the second (p ≤ 0.034) and third post-operative days (p ≤ 0.014). The levels of IL-6 were significantly lower in group C than group A on the first three post-operative days (p = 0.023). The mean length of stay was significantly lower in group C than group A (p = 0.023). No VTE or other adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSION

Multiple boluses of IV-TXA can effectively reduce HBL following primary THA. A regime of three boluses leads to a smaller decrease in the level of Hb, less post-operative inflammation and a shorter length of stay in hospital than a single bolus. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2017;99-B:1442-9.

Intravenous versus topical tranexamic acid administration in primary total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This meta-analysis was designed to compare the effectiveness and safety of intravenous (IV) versus topical administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) by evaluating the need for allogenic blood transfusion, incidence of postoperative complications, volume of postoperative blood loss, and change in haemoglobin levels.

METHODS

Studies were included in this meta-analysis to check whether they assessed the allogenic blood transfusion rate, postoperative complications including pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), volume of postoperative blood loss via drainage, estimated blood loss, total blood loss, and change in haemoglobin levels before and after surgery in primary TKA with TXA administered through both the IV and topical routes.

RESULTS

Ten studies were included in this meta-analysis. The proportion of patients requiring allogenic blood transfusion (OR 1.34, 95 % CI 0.63-2.81; n.s.) and the proportion of patients who developed postoperative complications including PTE or DVT (OR 0.85, 95 % CI 0.41 to 1.77; n.s.) did not significantly differ between the two groups. There was 52.3 mL less blood loss via drainage (95 % CI -50.74 to 185.66 mL; n.s.), 52.1 mL greater estimated blood loss (95 % CI -155.27 to 51.03 mL; n.s.), and 51.4 mL greater total blood loss (95 % CI -208.16 to 105.31 mL; n.s.) in the topical TXA group as compared to the IV TXA group. The two groups were also similar in terms of the change in haemoglobin levels (0.02 g/dL, 95 % CI -0.36 to 0.39 g/dL; n.s.).

CONCLUSIONS

In primary TKA, there are no significant differences in the transfusion requirement, postoperative complications, blood loss, and change in haemoglobin levels between the IV and topical administration of TXA. In addition, results from subgroup analysis evaluating the effect of the times of TXA administration through the IV route suggested that double IV dose of TXA is more effective than single dose in terms of the transfusion requirements and blood loss via drainage. The current meta-analysis indicates that IV administration of 10 mg/kg of TXA 20 min before inflation of the tourniquet followed by 10 mg/kg of TXA 15 min before deflation of the tourniquet is effective and safe. The topical administration of 2 g of TXA mixed with 100 mL of normal saline after wound closure could be an alternative option in patients at greater risk of thromboembolic complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Meta-analysis, Level III.

Factors that influence blood loss and need for transfusion following total knee arthroplasty

Background

Blood loss during total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains a concern, as many patients require blood transfusions, which increase risks of allergic reactions, disease transmission, and thromboembolisms. The purpose was to determine factors associated with blood loss and need for transfusion in patients receiving routine TKA.

Methods

The authors prospectively analyzed 150 consecutive uncemented TKAs for age, gender, body mass index (BMI), anticoagulant medication, type of anesthesia, tranexamic acid (TXA) administration, tourniquet inflation, drain placement, pre- and post-operative Haemoglobin (Hb) level (g/dL), and whether transfusion was necessary. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with Hb loss and need for transfusion with significance level set at P value<0.05.

Results

The cohort comprised 92 women and 58 men, aged 69.5±8.9 years. The mean Hb loss was 3.7±1.3 g/dL. The 20 patients (13%) who had transfusions also had lower preoperative Hb (12.6±1.2 g/dL) compared to the remaining patients (14.3±1.2 g/dL). Hb loss was significantly associated with preoperative Hb, TXA, and gender, but multivariable regression identified gender as a confounder and indicated that TXA reduced Hb loss by 0.92 g/dL. Multivariable regression revealed the need for transfusion was only significantly associated with preoperative Hb and indicated that a decrease of preoperative Hb by 1 g/dL nearly quadrupled the chances of needing transfusion.

Conclusions

Hb loss was significantly associated with preoperative Hb levels and use of TXA, while the need for transfusion was only associated with preoperative Hb levels. These findings could help identify patients at risk for blood transfusions. Level of evidence: level III, prospective case series.

A prospective, randomized, comparative study of intravenous alone and combined intravenous and intraarticular administration of tranexamic acid in primary total knee replacement

Background

Studies on the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) to improve clinical outcomes after joint arthroplasty have reported contrasting results between intravenous (IV) TXA alone and combined IV and intraarticular (IA) administration. We compared the effectiveness of the 2 methods in providing higher postoperative hemoglobin (Hb) levels in patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A total of 100 TKA patients were randomly assigned to receive either IV TXA alone (group 1) or combined IV and topical IA TXA (group 2). Hb and hematocrit levels were measured before and after surgery. The amount of drained blood and transfused blood for the 2 groups was compared.

Results

The Hb level was significantly higher at postoperative day 4, together with a positive, albeit not significant, trend toward less postoperative blood loss in the group that received combined IV and IA TXA. No postoperative infections or deep venous thrombosis events occurred.

Conclusions

This study reinforces evidence that, as compared to IV TXA alone, combined IV and IA administration of TXA has a synergic effect, leading to higher postoperative Hb levels without influencing drug safety in TKA patients.

Combined intravenous, topical and oral tranexamic acid administration in total knee replacement: Evaluation of safety in patients with previous thromboembolism and effect on hemoglobin level and transfusion rate

BACKGROUND

The aims of this study were to investigate the safety of combined intravenous, oral and topical tranexamic acid (TXA) in primary total knee replacement. We assessed dose-related efficacy on hemoglobin level, transfusion, length of stay and thromboembolic complications. In addition, TXA safety in patients with previous history of thromboembolism >12months ago was monitored specifically.

METHODS

From January 2013 until January 2016, 922 patients were included who received TXA after primary total knee replacement. Patients without TXA administration or with thromboembolic events <12months ago were excluded. TXA dosage groups were divided into ≤10mg/kg, >10-25mg/kg and >25-50mg/kg.

RESULTS

Between the three TXA groups no significant difference was found in thromboembolic complications (deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE)), wound leakage and transfusion rate. For patients with DVT or PE in their history >12months ago specifically, no more complications were noted in higher-TXA-dosage groups compared to the low-dosage group. Length of stay was shorter in the highest-TXA-dosage group compared with lower-dosage groups (median two vs three days). With high TXA dose a smaller difference between pre- and postoperative Hb was found: the >25-50mg/kg TXA group had a 0.419mmol/l smaller decrease in postoperative hemoglobin compared to the lowest-dosage group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Combined intravenous, oral and topical TXA is effective in knee replacement and can safely be given to patients with a thromboembolic history >12months ago. High dosage (>25-50mg/kg) TXA resulted in the smallest decrease in postoperative hemoglobin.

The efficacy of tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss in total shoulder arthroplasty: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this meta-analysis is to compare the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) versus placebo after a total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA).

METHODS

In April 2017, a systematic computer-based search was conducted in the databases of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google. Studies comparing TXA versus placebo in reducing blood loss after TSA were included. The endpoints were the need for transfusion, blood loss in drainage, hemoglobin drop, and total blood loss. Stata 12.0 software was used for the meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Six studies involving a total of 637 patients met the inclusion criteria. The meta-analysis revealed that, compared with control groups, treatment with TXA could decrease the need for transfusion (P < .00001), blood loss in drainage (P = .000), hemoglobin drop (P = .001), and total blood loss (P = .000).

CONCLUSION

TXA can decrease the need for transfusion as well as total blood loss in TSA patients. There was a negative correlation between the TXA dose and the need for transfusion and blood loss in drainage. Because the administration route and the dose of TXA were different, more studies are needed in order to identify the optimal dose and route.

Evidence base and practice variation in acute care processes for knee and hip arthroplasty surgeries

BACKGROUND

Lack of evidence contributes to unnecessary variation in treatment costs and outcomes. This study aimed to identify from interventions historically used for total knee or hip arthroplasty (TKA, THA): i) if routine use is supported by high-level evidence; ii) whether surgeon use aligns with the evidence.

METHODS

Part 1: Systematic search of electronic library databases for systematic reviews and practice guidelines concerning seven acute-care interventions. Intervention-specific recommendations concerning routine use were extracted by assessors. Part 2: Prospective medical record audit of the acute-care received by 1900 patients involving 120 orthopaedic surgeons. Surgeon use per intervention was summarized using caterpillar plots. Surgeon-specific routine and non-routine use was defined as use in ≥ 90% and ≤ 10% of patients, respectively. Primary analysis included only surgeons contributing ≥ 10 patients.

RESULTS

Continuous passive motion (TKA): Routine use not recommended; 85.7% of surgeons did not use it routinely. Tranexamic Acid: Routine use recommended; 26.9% of surgeons used it routinely. Cryotherapy: Routine use not recommended; 45.7% of surgeons used it routinely for TKA; 31.8% used it routinely for THA. Intra-articular drainage: Routine use not recommended for TKA, but possible benefits for THA; 5.7% of surgeons used it routinely for TKA, 0.0% used it routinely for THA. Antibiotic loaded bone cement: Routine use for TKA not supported, recommendations for use for THA are inconsistent; 90.0% of surgeons used it routinely for TKA, 100.0% used it routinely for THA. Patella resurfacing (TKA): No recommendation could be made; 57.1% of surgeons routinely resurfaced the patella. Indwelling urinary catheterisation: Routine use recommended; 59.6% of surgeons used it routinely.

CONCLUSION

Recommendations for routine use or not exist for some of the acute-care interventions examined. Surgeon practices vary widely even in the presence of high-level recommendations. It is unclear whether further evidence alone would lessen unwarranted practice variation.

Intra-articular versus intravenous tranexamic acid application in total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the blood loss and complications of intra-articular (IA) with intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TXA) for total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

A comprehensive search of studies was conducted to identify related articles in Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane central Register of Controlled Trials, springerLink, OVID and the Research published from January 1980 to September 2016. All studies that compared IA TXA with IV TXA application on TKA were included. Main outcomes of the two methods were collected and analyzed by using Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

There were 16 randomized controlled trials with 1308 cases met the criteria. Compared with IV TXA, IA TXA had similar blood volume of drainage, hidden blood loss, transfusion rate and complications (P > 0.05). IA TXA had lower total blood loss than IV TXA, and there was significant difference (P < 0.05). Subgroup analysis of total blood loss based on times of IV TXA administration showed that repeat dose of IV TXA had a higher total blood loss and postoperative hemoglobin drop (P < 0.05) than IA TXA. However, single dose of IV TXA had a similar efficacy on total blood loss and postoperative hemoglobin drop (P > 0.05) when compared with IA TXA.

CONCLUSIONS

Both IA TXA and single dose of IV TXA are effective in reducing total blood loss and postoperative hemoglobin drop without increasing complications of DVT or PE. The current meta-analysis suggests that 1.5 g TXA by IA administration or 1 g TXA by IV administration 10 min before tourniquet deflation is effective and safe in patients undergoing TKA.

Management of Blood Loss in Hip Arthroplasty: Korean Hip Society Current Consensus

The volume of hip arthroplasty is stiffly increasing because of excellent clinical outcomes, however it has not been shown to decrease the incidence of transfusions due to bleeding related to this surgery. This is an important consideration since there are concerns about the side effects and social costs of transfusions. First, anemia should be assessed at least 30 days before elective hip arthroplasty, and if the subject is diagnosed as having anemia, an additional examination of the cause of the anemia should be carried and steps taken to address the anemia. Available iron treatments for anemia take 7 to 10 days to facilitate erythropoiesis, and preoperative iron supplementation, either oral or intravenous, is recommended. When using oral supplements for iron storage, administer elemental iron 100 mg daily for 2 to 6 weeks before surgery, and calculate the dose using intravenous supplement. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic derivative of the lysine component, which reduces blood loss by inhibiting fibrinolysis and clot degradation. TXA is known to be an effective agent for reducing postoperative bleeding and reducing the need for transfusions in primary and revision total hip arthroplasties. Patient blood management has improved the clinical outcome after hip arthroplasty through the introduction and research of various agents, thereby reducing the need for allogeneic blood transfusions and reducing the risk of transfusion-related infections and the duration of hospitalizations.

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.

Predicting Factors for Allogeneic Blood Transfusion and Excessive Postoperative Blood Loss after Single Low-Dosage Intra-Articular Tranexamic Acid Application in Total Knee Replacement

Background. Recently, intra-articular tranexamic acid (IA-TXA) application has become a popular method for perioperative blood loss (PBL) reduction in total knee replacement (TKR). Nevertheless, through our knowledge, no previous studies had shown the correlation perioperative factors and the risk of excessive PBL or need of blood transfusion (BT) after IA-TXA. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study was conducted in patients underwent 299 primary TKRs, using IA-TXA, during 2-year period (2013-2014). Patient's characteristic and perioperative data were reviewed and collected. PBL was measured as total hemoglobin loss (THL), estimated total blood loss (ETBL), and drainage volume per kg (DV/kg). Excessive PBL was defined as PBL that exceeded 90th percentile. Results. From multivariate analysis, low preoperative hemoglobin (Hb) level and body mass index (BMI) were the significant predictors of postoperative BT (p < 0.0001 and 0.003, resp.). Excessive THL significant associated with preoperative Hb (p < 0.0001). Excessive ETBL significantly associated with preoperative Hb, height, preoperative range-of-motion, and creatinine clearance (p < 0.05 all). Low BMI and large prosthesis size were the significant predictors of excessive DV/kg (p = 0.0001 and 0.002, resp.). Conclusions. Low preoperative Hb and BMI were the significant risks of postoperative transfusion after TKR with IA-TXA. Moreover, multiple perioperative factors could result in higher PBL.

Use of tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

different strategies have been developed to reduce blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The efficacy of both systemic and local tranexamic acid (TXA) administration is demonstrated in the literature. The aim of the present study was to compare the efficacy of systemic, local and combined (systemic + local) administration of TXA in reducing blood loss after TKA.

METHODS

we enrolled all patients submitted to a primary TKA in our department between November 2014 and August 2015. They were divided into three groups corresponding to the method of TXA administration used: intravenous (IV), intra-articular (IA), and a combination of the two. Demographic data, as well as preoperative hemoglobin and platelet levels, were collected. The primary outcome was the maximum hemoglobin loss, while the secondary outcomes were the amount of blood in the drain (cc/hour) and the rate of transfusions; postoperative pain was also assessed. Student's t-test or a χ² test was used to evaluate between-group differences, using p<0.05 as the cut-off for statistically significant differences.

RESULTS

the sample comprised 34 patients: IV, 10 cases; IA, 15 cases, and combined (IV + IA), 9 cases. The average age of the patients was 71.1±6.4 years. No significant differences in the outcome measures were found between the groups, with the exception of a significantly lower maximum hemoglobin loss in the combined versus the IV group (p=0.02). There were no differences between the groups in the amount of blood in the drain or the rate of transfusions.

CONCLUSIONS

the data from this preliminary study, as well as data from the literature, confirm that TXA administration is safe and effective in reducing total blood loss in TKA, and no administration protocol seems to be superior to the others.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level II, prospective comparative study.

The combined use of oral and topical tranexamic acid is a safe, efficient and low-cost method in reducing blood loss and transfusion rates in total knee arthroplasty

AIMS

The combined (IV (intravenous) + topical) use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be a safe method and more effective than single (IV or topical) application. The optimal administration method of TXA is still being investigated and safety, efficiency and cost are the three main crucial parameters in achieving the best administration method. We aimed to determine whether combined (oral + topical) use of TXA reduced blood loss and transfusion rates more than single (topical) administration in TKA and whether oral + topical use is as safe and efficient as the IV + topical use, in addition to the main advantage of relatively low cost.

METHODS

In this prospective, randomized study, 100 patients were randomly assigned to either the topical TXA group or the combined (oral + topical) TXA group. There were no significant differences between the groups in age, body mass index or gender. The haemoglobin and haematocrit levels of each patient were recorded preoperatively and on post-operative days 0, 1, 2 and 3. The post-operative suction drainage and blood transfusion volumes were also recorded.

RESULTS

There were statistically significant differences between the groups in haemoglobin and haematocrit levels on post-operative days 0, 1, 2 and 3 ( p < 0.05) in favour of the combined group. The post-operative drainage amounts ( p = 0.0001), measured blood loss volume ( p = 0.003) and transfusion rates ( p = 0.03) were lower in the combined (oral + topical) group compared to the topical group.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the different methods of TXA administration, the combined use of oral and topical TXA is a safe, efficient and low-cost method in reducing blood loss and transfusion rates after TKA.

Topical use of platelet-rich plasma can improve the clinical outcomes after total knee arthroplasty: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 1316 patients

OBJECTIVE

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is extracted by centrifuging whole blood and characterized with a high concentration of platelets. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) versus placebo after total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

The Electronic databases of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched from inception to November 2016 and any studies involving PRP versus placebo for patients prepared for TKA were selected by two reviewers. The primary endpoint is the range of motion (ROM), which represents the function after TKA. The Western Ontario McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index Bellamy (WOMAC), pain at 24 h, 48 h and 7 day are also assessed the effect of PRP on the function and pain after TKA. The complications of infection is also compiled to assess the safety of PRP. Stata 12.0 was used to synthesis the final results.

RESULTS

Eleven clinical trials with 1316 patients are included in the meta-analysis. The pooled results indicate that administration PRP significantly increase ROM on the third day (MD = 4.72, 95% CI 2.74, 6.69; P = 0.000) and 3 month postoperatively (MD = 7.55, 95% CI 5.91, 9.19; P = 0.000). There is no statistical difference between the two groups in terms of WOMAC questionnaire score in 3 months (MD = -4.88, 95% CI -12.12, 2.41; P = 0.190). There were no statistical significance between the two groups in pain intensity at 24 h, 48 h and 7 day. There is no statistically significant difference between the PRP versus placebo in terms of the occurrence of infection (RR = 0.64, 95%CI: 0.19-2.14, P = 0.464).

CONCLUSION

Current meta-analysis indicates that PRP is associated with increasing the ROM after TKA in short term and long term. What's more, PRP can also decrease the WOMAC score and pain intensity without increasing the occurrence of infection.

Combined use of intravenous and topical versus intravenous tranexamic acid in primary total joint arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To compare the safety and efficacy of combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid with that of intravenous tranexamic acid in primary total joint arthroplasty.

METHODS

Literature was searched in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases. Only randomized controlled trials were included in our study. Data were using fixed-effects or random-effects models with standard mean differences and risk ratios for continuous and dichotomous variables, respectively.

RESULTS

Seven randomized controlled trials encompassing 683 patients were retrieved for this meta-analysis. Outcomes showed that when compared with intravenous tranexamic acid, combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid could significantly reduce total blood loss by a mean of 138.70 mL [95% confidence interval (CI): -196.14 to -81.26, p < 0.001], transfusion rates (risk ratio 0.42, 95% CI: 0.2 to 0.85, p < 0.001). No significant difference in the occurrence of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism was found between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis indicated that comparing with only intravenous tranexamic acid, combined use of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid can significantly reduce blood loss and transfusion rate in primary total joint arthroplasty without increasing the risk of thrombotic complications. Therefore, we suggest that tranexamic acid should be intravenously combined with topically administered in primary total joint arthroplasty.

Combined intravenous and topical tranexamic acid versus intravenous use alone in primary total knee and hip arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

The tranexamic acid (TXA) can reduce surgical perioperative blood loss. However, the optimal regimen of tranexamic acid remains controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the efficacy and safety of combined intravenous and topical tranexamic acid versus intravenous use alone in primary total knee and hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

PubMed, EMbase, Cochrane library and OVID were searched. Eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating combined intravenous and topical TXA versus intravenous alone in primary total knee and hip arthroplasty were included. The relative risk (RR) or the mean difference (MD) for dichotomous or continuous data was calculated respectively, and heterogeneity was analyzed by chi-square and I² tests.

RESULTS

A total of five RCTs met the inclusion criteria were included. The meta-analysis indicated that there was statistically significant difference favoring the combined group in total blood loss(MD = -160.90, 95% CI[-201.26, -120.54]), P < 0.00001), hemoglobin drop (MD = -0.41, 95% CI[-0.73,0.08], P = 0.01), transfusion requirements(RR = 0.29, 95% CI[0.12,0.70], P = 0.006) and length of hospital stays (MD = -0.21, 95%CI[-0.40, -0.02], P = 0.03). Both groups showed similar outcomes regarding thromboembolic complications(RR = 0.84, 95% CI[0.26,2.70], P = 0.76).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our study, Combined use of intravenous and topical TXA is more effective than intravenous TXA alone in primary total knee or hip arthroplasty without increasing the risk of thromboembolic complications. Further high quality studies with more patients are needed in future studies.

Topical versus systemic tranexamic acid after total knee and hip arthroplasty: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic drug widely used to reduce blood loss during joint replacements, including total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and total hip arthroplasty (THA). However, there is no final consensus regarding the composition of an optimal administration of TXA regime between topical and systemic (intravenous). The purpose of our study was to compare the efficacy of topical and intravenous (IV) regimen of TXA during TKA and THA.

METHODS

Five relevant electronic online databases, PubMed, EMBASE, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science and Chinese Biomedical Database were systematically searched in November 2015. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared topical with intravenous TXA in patients with TKA or THA were included. The search terms included "topical," "intravenous," "tranexamic acid," "knee arthroplasty" and "hip arthroplasty." Two reviewers independently extracted data and assessed the risk of bias and study quality. Data were analyzed with Review Manager 5.3 software. Grades of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) were used to assess the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

Sixteen RCTs with 1250 patients undergoing TKA and 4 RCTs involving 550 patients undergoing THA were included. There were no significant differences in total blood loss (mean difference [MD]TKA = -28.72 mL, 95% confidence interval [CI] -195.97 to 138.54 mL, P = 0.74; MDTHA = 14.03 mL, 95% CI -35.53 to 63.59 mL; P = 0.78), total drain out (MDTKA = -3.09 mL, 95% CI -39.05 to 32.88 mL; P = 0.87; MDTHA -31.00 mL, 95% CI -66.56 to 4.66 mL; P = 0.09), and transfusion rates (ORTKA = 0.90, 95% CI 0.58-1.40, P = 0.64; ORTHA = 1.19, 95% CI 0.67-2.09; P = 0.63) between topical and intravenous (IV) TXA.

CONCLUSIONS

The current evidence suggested that topical TXA was equally effective and safe compared with intravenous TXA in reducing blood loss and transfusion rate following TKA or THA. We recommended that either topically or systemically could be used in TKA and THA to decrease perioperative blood loss.

A protocol avoiding allogeneic transfusion in joint arthroplasties

INTRODUCTION

Arthroplasties of hip and knee are associated with blood loss, which may lead to adverse patient outcome. Performing arthroplasties in Jehovah's Witness patients who do not accept transfusion has been a matter of concern. We developed a protocol, which avoids transfusion in arthroplasties of Jehovah's Witness patients, and evaluated the feasibility and safety of the protocol.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The target of preoperative hemoglobin was more than 10 g/dL. When preoperative hemoglobin was lower than 10 g/dL, 4000 U erythropoietin (3 times a week) and 100 mg iron supplement (every day) were administered until the hemoglobin reached 10 g/dL. When the preoperative hemoglobin was higher than 10 g/dL, 4000 U erythropoietin and 100 mg iron supplement were administered once, before operation. During the operation, cell saver was used. Postoperatively, erythropoietin and iron supplements were administered until the hemoglobin reached 10 g/dL, similar to the preoperative protocol. We evaluated the feasibility of our protocol, perioperative complications and hematologic changes.

RESULTS

From 2002 to 2014, 186 Witness patients visited our department. In 179 patients (96.2 %), 77 total knee arthroplasties, 69 bipolar hemiarthroplasties and 33 total hip arthroplasties were performed. The mean hemoglobin level was 12.3 g/dL preoperatively, 9.4 g/dL on postoperative day 3 and 10.3 g/dL on postoperative day 7. One patient died immediately after the arthroplasty and the remaining 178 patients survived.

CONCLUSIONS

Total joint arthroplasty could be done without transfusion using this protocol in most of our patients. The rates of infection and mortality were similar with known infection and mortality rates of arthroplasties. In patients who do not want allogeneic transfusions, our protocol is a safe alternative to perform joint arthroplasties.