Tranexamic acid reduces blood loss and blood transfusion after TKA: a prospective randomized controlled trial

Efficacy and Safety of Bone Wax Application at Different Time Points to Reduce Postoperative Blood Loss in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

In addition to the surface hemorrhage of cancellous bone after large-area osteotomy, the intramedullary hemorrhage after the reamed knee joint is also a major cause of postoperative bleeding after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of bone wax application at different time points of prone hemorrhage to reduce perioperative blood loss.

METHODS

From August 2023 to December 2023, 150 patients undergoing primary unilateral TKA were included in this prospective, randomized controlled trial, patients were randomly divided into three groups: group A, after autogenous osteotomy plug was used to fill the femoral medullary cavity, the residual space was sealed with bone wax and the exposed cancellous bone surface around the prosthesis was coated with bone wax after the prosthesis adhesion; group B, only the exposed cancellous bone surface around the prosthesis was coated with bone wax; and group C, no bone wax was used. The primary outcome was total perioperative blood loss. Secondary outcomes included occult blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin reduction, blood transfusion rate, lower limb diameter, and knee function, while length of hospital stay was recorded. Tertiary outcomes included the incidence of postoperative related adverse events.

RESULTS

The total blood loss in group A (551.5 ± 224.5 mL) and group B (656.3 ± 267.7 mL) was significantly lower than that in group C (755.3 ± 248.3 ml, p < 0.001), and the total blood loss in group A was also lower than that in group B (p < 0.05). There were also significant differences in the reduction of hemoglobin level and hidden blood loss among the three groups (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant improvement in postoperative lower limb swelling, knee joint activity and hospitalization time; there was no significant difference in the incidence of complications such as thromboembolism.

CONCLUSION

The use of bone wax in TKA can safely and effectively reduce perioperative blood loss and hemoglobin drop rate, and multiple use at time points during the operation when blood loss is prone to occur can produce more significant hemostatic effect.

Efficacy and Safety of Oral Tranexamic Acid vs. Other Routes in Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Total joint arthroplasty (TJA) is often associated with significant blood loss, leading to complications such as acute anemia and increased risk of infection and mortality. Tranexamic acid (TXA), an antifibrinolytic agent, has been recognized for effectively reducing blood loss during TJA. This systematic review and network meta-analysis aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of oral TXA compared with other administration routes in TJA.

METHODS

Adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a comprehensive literature search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science, focusing on randomized clinical trials involving oral TXA in TJA. The studies were assessed for quality using the Cochrane risk assessment scale. Data synthesis involved network meta-analyses, comparing outcomes including hemoglobin drop, estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion rate, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT) rate.

RESULTS

Our comprehensive literature search incorporated 39 studies with 7,538 participants, focusing on 8 TXA administration methods in TJA. The combination of oral and intra-articular (oral + IA) TXA markedly reduced hemoglobin drop more effectively than oral, intravenous (IV), and IA alone, but the difference was not significant. Oral + IA TXA significantly reduced EBL more effectively than oral + IV, IA + IV, and oral, IV, and IA alone. Perioperative transfusion rates with oral + IA TXA was significantly lower than that of oral, IA, and IV alone. The DVT rate with oral + IA was significantly lower than that with all other routes, including oral + IV, IA + IV, and oral, IA, and IV alone.

CONCLUSION

Oral TXA, particularly in combination with IA administration, demonstrates significantly higher efficacy in reducing blood loss and transfusion rates in TJA, with a safety profile comparable with that of other administration routes. The oral route, offering lower costs and simpler administration, emerges as a viable and preferable option in TJA procedures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

The efficacy and safety of different does of intravenous tranexamic acid on blood loss in fresh foot and ankle fractures: a prospective, randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

There are a few studies on the effectiveness and safety of intravenous administration of tranexamic acid(TXA) in patients who underwent foot and ankle surgery, especially for preoperative hidden blood loss in patients with freshfoot and ankle fractures. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate whether intravenous administration of different doses of TXA can effectively reduce perioperative blood loss and blood loss before surgery and to determine its safety.

METHODS

A total of 150 patients with fresh closed foot and ankle fractures from July 2021 to July 2023 were randomly divided into a control group (placebo controlled [PC]), standard-dose group (low-dose group [LD], 1 g/24 h; medium-dose group [MD], 2 g/24 h), and high-dose group (HD, 3 g/24 h; ultrahigh-dose group [UD], 4 g/24 h). After admission, all patients completed hematological examinations as soon as possible and at multiple other time points postsurgery.

RESULTS

There was a significant difference in the incidence of hidden blood loss before the operation between the TXA group and the control group, and the effect was greater in the overdose groups than in the standard-dose groups. There were significant differences in surgical blood loss (intraoperative and postoperative), postoperative HGB changes, and hidden blood loss among the groups. The TXA groups showed a significant decrease in blood loss compared to that of the control group, and the overdose groups had a more significant effect than the standard-dose groups. A total of 9 patients in the control group had early wound infection or poor healing, while only 1 patient in the other groups had this complication, and the difference among the groups was significant. No patients in any group suffered from late deep wound infection, cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events or symptomatic VTE.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study on whether TXA can reduce preoperative hidden blood loss in patients with freshfoot and ankle fractures. In our study, on the one hand, intravenous application of TXA after foot and ankle fractures as soon as possible can reduce preoperative blood loss and postoperative blood loss. On the other hand, TXA can also lower wound complications, and over-doses of TXA are more effective than standard doses. Moreover, overdoses of TXA do not increase the incidence of DVT.

Evaluating the Efficacy and Safety of Combined Administration of Systemic and Topical Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Introduction

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent, thatagent that reduces substantial blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) surgeries without increasing the risk of thromboembolic complications. The purpose of our study was to assess the effectiveness and safety of the combined use of intravenousIV and topical TXAtranexamic acid in uncomplicated primary Total knee Arthroplasty (TKA) without complications.

Materials and Methods

In this prospective study, we enrolled 61 patients who underwent unilateral primary TKR and were randomly divided into two groups: Group I received intravenous (IV) TXA and Group II received both IV and intraarticular (IA) TXA. Patients assigned to Group I received IV TXA preoperatively 30 mins before surgery and postoperatively at 3 and 6 hours after surgery, whereas in the combined group, in addition to IV doses, topical TXA was applied as mop 2 g of TXA diluted in 30 mL of isotonic sodium chloride solution) intraarticularly for about 5 minutes before closing the arthrotomy. We measured total blood loss (TBL), ) and mean reduction in haemoglobin (Hb) levels as primary outcomes. Transfusion rates, incidence of thromboembolic events (TE), and other adverse effects as secondary outcomes. Total blood loss TBL and Hb drops was were noted on the 3rd post-operative day. All the patients were followed-up for 6 months to note the incidence of deep venous thrombosisDVT and Thromboembolic Events (TE). An Iindependent t-test was used to evaluate between--group differences. P < 0.05 as is the cut-off for statistically significant differences.

Results

The Total blood loss (TBL) in Group I was 780.05 ± 158.05 mL, compared to 660.80 ± 156.45 mL in Group II. (P < 0.001). The Hb drop was significantly lower in IV TXA group (2.3 ± 0.37) than the combined TXA group (1.40 ± 0.32). Furthermore, both groups required no transfusions. No thromboembolic complications was were noted postoperatively and at 6 6-month follow-up.

Conclusion

TXATranexamic acid in total knee replacement surgery effectively decreases blood loss and significantly reduces the need for blood transfusions. Based on our study, the combined use of intravenous (IV) and IAintraarticular TXA in total knee replacement was found to be superior in reducing blood loss and significantly reducing the need for blood transfusions in TKA.

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.

Die perioperative Gabe von Tranexamsäure

The application of tranexamic acid (TXA) during endoprosthetic surgical procedures has significantly increased in recent years. Due its ability to reduce perioperative blood loss and avert the need for blood transfusions as well as wound drainage, TXA is becoming part of a 'standard practice'. However, TXA is currently not approved for the application during endoprosthetic procedures and therefore, a benefit-risk analysis should always be conducted. Prophylactic administration of TXA without prior patient consent is only justified if fibrinolytic bleeding is expected and there are no contraindications or relevant risk factors for thromboembolic complications. Respectively, no patient consent is required when a therapeutic dose of TXA is administered in the context of fibrinolytic bleeding. The following guidelines provide updated recommendations based on the current state of knowledge on TXA optimal timing, routes of administration and dosing regimen.

The natural course of hemoglobin levels after allogenic blood transfusion in total knee arthroplasty

We retrospectively investigated the natural course of hemoglobin levels after allogenic blood transfusion in total knee arthroplasty. All patients were treated according to the same clinical pathway, and blood tests were performed on the same day. All blood tests were done on pre-op, immediate post-op, midnight of op day, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 11th day after surgery. Of the total 593 cases, a total of 197 cases (33.2%) were performed within 3 days of surgery. Hemoglobin level was significantly lowest on the 3rd day after surgery and tended to increase afterwards in the non-transfusion group. In the case of blood transfusion on the day of surgery, the hemoglobin level showed an increase on the next day and then showed a minimum value on the fifth day of surgery and then increased. The same pattern was identified when blood transfusion was done on the 1st and 2nd day of surgery. However, when blood transfusion was done on the 3rd day, the hemoglobin level showed a steady increase afterwards. The hemoglobin level of total knee arthroplasty patients with no blood transfusion was the lowest on the 3rd day after surgery and increased afterwards. If blood transfusion was done within 2 days after surgery, the hemoglobin level was the lowest on the 5th day after surgery and increased afterwards. If blood transfusion was done on the 3rd day after surgery, the hemoglobin level increased afterwards.

Major National Shifts to Outpatient Total Knee Arthroplasties in the United States: A 10-Year Trends Analysis of Procedure Volumes, Complications, and Healthcare Utilizations (2010 to 2020)

BACKGROUND

The removal of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) from inpatient-only lists accelerated changes in orthopaedic surgical practices across the United States. This study aimed to (1) quantify the annual volume of inpatient/outpatient primary TKAs; (2) compare patient characteristics before/after the year 2018; and (3) compare annual trends in 30-day readmissions, 30-day complications, and healthcare utilization parameters for inpatient/outpatient TKAs.

METHODS

The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program was reviewed (January 2010 to December 2020) for patients who underwent primary TKA (n = 470,456). The primary outcome was annual volumes of inpatient/outpatient TKA. Secondary outcomes included 30-day readmissions, 30-day reoperations, and 30-day major/minor complications. Demographic characteristics and healthcare utilization parameters (hospital lengths of stay and discharge dispositions) were compared between cohorts via Chi-square goodness-of-fit tests.

RESULTS

Overall, 89% had inpatient TKA (n = 416,972) and 11% had outpatient TKA (n = 53,854). Between 2017 and 2020, annual volumes of outpatient TKA increased by 1,925 (1,019 to 20,633), while inpatient TKA decreased by 53% (61,874 to 29,280). Patients who had outpatient TKA after 2018 were older (P < .001), predominantly males (P < .001), more commonly White (P < .001), and had a greater proportion of American Society of Anesthesiologists class III (P < .001). The inpatient cohort had higher rates of 30-day readmissions, reoperations, and complications. Average length of stay and nonhome discharges decreased for both cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Outpatient TKA increased 20-fold at NSQIP hospitals. The changes in comorbidity profiles and the increase in volumes of outpatient TKA were not associated with a rise in cumulative 30-day readmissions and complications. Further research and policy endeavors should focus on identifying patients who still require or benefit from inpatient TKA.

Tranexamic Acid Utilization in Foot and Ankle Surgery: A Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used in various orthopaedic subspecialities to decrease blood loss, transfusions, and wound complications. However, the role of TXA in foot and ankle surgery is not clearly delineated. This meta-analysis aims to report the efficacy and safety of TXA in relation to foot and ankle surgical procedures.

METHODS

Database searches were conducted for eligible studies from data inception through January 2022. Clinical studies on the use of TXA in foot and ankle procedures reporting the desired outcomes were included. Outcomes were estimated blood loss, change in hemoglobin, and overall complications. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa quality assessment scale and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool.

RESULTS

Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 752 foot and ankle procedures were included, in which 511 (67.95%) procedures received TXA whereas 241 (32.05%) served as controls and did not receive TXA. The pooled data of change in hemoglobin and overall complications showed no difference between the TXA and control group. Estimated blood loss was significantly lower in the patients who received TXA.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, TXA use was associated with lower estimated blood loss in foot and ankle surgeries without increased risk of thromboembolic events, wound complications, or changes in hemoglobin.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, meta-analysis.

The addition of oral Tranexamic acid to knee arthroplasty patients does not further improve blood loss: a double blinded randomized control trial

Perioperative intravenous (IV) TA has become routine in knee and hip arthroplasty. Less evidence exists on the administration of oral TA in the post- operative period. Our study aims to identify the efficacy and safety of combined perioperative IV and post-operative oral TA on blood loss and Hemoglobin (Hb) drop compared to perioperative IV TA alone. Patients undergoing primary elective knee arthro- plasty at our institution were invited to participate in the study (n=50). A computer-generated randomisation sequence was created online (www.randomization. org), with an allocation ratio of 1:1 and a block size of 50. Group A received perioperative IV TA alone and post-operative oral TA (n= 26) and Group B received perioperative IV TA plus 48 hours additional oral placebo (n= 24). Day 3 total blood loss and Hb drop was calculated. Continuous, normally distributed data (total blood loss) was compared utilising using one-way analysis of variance with post hoc Tukey test. Continuous skewed data (Hb drop) was compared using the Kruskal-Wallis test. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Group A demonstrated a trend in decreased total blood loss that was close to statistical significance ( p = 0.072). No difference in Hb drop was identified between the 2 groups. Increased nausea was also observed in Group A. The administration of oral TA to post-operative knee arthroplasty patients does not improve further blood loss compared to patients receiving perioperative IV TA pre-operatively and at wound closure.

Transfusion Avoidance in Severely Anemic Total Hip and Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients: An Analysis of Risk

Background

Material and methods

Results

Conclusion

Intra-articular versus intravenous administration of tranexamic acid in lower limb total arthroplasty: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials

AIM

The ideal route of tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in total hip arthroplasty (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA) remains controversial. This study aims to identify the optima route of TXA administration in THA or TKA.

METHODS

PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE and CENTRAL database were systematically searched until 4 August 2021 for randomised studies that compared intravenous (IV) or intra-articular (IA) administration of TXA in THA or TKA.

RESULTS

Sixty-seven studies enrolling 8335 patients (IA: 4162; IV: 4173) were eligible for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Comparable results were demonstrated in the incidence of venous thromboembolisation (OR:0.96, p = 0.84), total blood loss (MD: - 9.05, p = 0.36), drain output (MD: - 7.36, p = 0.54), hidden blood loss (MD: - 6.85, p = 0.47), postoperative haemoglobin level (MD: 0.01, p = 0.91), haemoglobin drop (MD: - 0.10, p = 0.22), blood transfusion rate (OR: 0.99, p = 0.87), total adverse events (OR: 1.12, p = 0.28), postoperative range of motion (MD: 1.08, p = 0.36), postoperative VAS pain score (MD: 0.13, p = 0.24) and postoperative D-dimer level (MD: 0.61, p = 0.64). IV route of TXA administration was associated with significantly longer length of hospital stay compared to IA route of administration (MD: - 0.22, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

In this meta-analysis, both IV and IA route of TXA administration were equally effective in managing blood loss and postoperative outcomes in lower limb joints arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 1. PROSPERO Registration CRD42021271355.

Effect of Sequential Intravenous and Oral Tranexamic Acid on Hemoglobin Drop After Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is typically discontinued on the day of total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, bleeding may persist for several days. We sought to determine whether sequential administration of intravenous (IV) and oral TXA could reduce hemoglobin (Hb) drop more than IV TXA alone. We also wanted to determine whether the use of additional oral TXA increased the rate of complications of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or symptomatic pulmonary embolism (PE).

METHODS

This prospective, randomized controlled trial included 141 patients. We compared the Hb drop, estimated blood loss (EBL), and transfusion rate of patients receiving IV TXA alone (group IV, n = 48) to those of patients who received IV TXA followed by oral TXA for 2 days (group 2D, n = 46) or 5 days (group 5D, n = 47). IV TXA was administered 10 minutes prior to the tourniquet release and 3 hours after the first IV TXA administration. Computed tomography (CT) was performed on postoperative day 6 to identify radiographic evidence of DVT. We also assessed the prevalence of symptomatic DVT and PE.

RESULTS

There were no differences in maximal Hb drop, Hb drops measured at each time point, EBL, or transfusion rate among the 3 groups. The mean maximal Hb drop was 3.5 g/dL in group IV, 3.2 g/dL in group 2D, and 3.4 g/dL in group 5D. The mean EBL was 999.9 mL in group IV, 886.4 mL in group 2D, and 972.5 mL in group 5D. One patient in each group required a transfusion. There were no differences in the prevalence of radiographic evidence of DVT or symptomatic DVT. Symptomatic DVT occurred in 3 patients in group IV and 2 patients in group 5D. One patient in group IV developed a symptomatic PE.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there was no increase in the complication rate, the sequential administration of oral TXA for up to 5 days after IV TXA did not decrease Hb drop. Therefore, our findings suggest that sequential use of oral and IV TXA is not recommended.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Fragility Index as a Measure of Randomized Clinical Trial Quality in Adult Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

Background

The Fragility Index (FI) and Reverse Fragility Index are powerful tools to supplement the P value in evaluation of randomized clinical trial (RCT) outcomes. These metrics are defined as the number of patients needed to change the significance level of an outcome. The purpose of this study was to calculate these metrics for published RCTs in total joint arthroplasty (TJA).

Methods

We performed a systematic review of RCTs in TJA over the last decade. For each study, we calculated the FI (for statistically significant outcomes) or Reverse Fragility Index (for nonstatistically significant outcomes) for all dichotomous, categorical outcomes. We also used the Pearson correlation coefficient to evaluate publication-level variables.

Results

We included 104 studies with 473 outcomes; 92 were significant, and 381 were nonstatistically significant. The median FI was 6 overall and 4 and 7 for significant and nonsignificant outcomes, respectively. There was a positive correlation between FI and sample size (R = 0.14, P = .002) and between FI and P values (R = 0.197, P = .000012).

Conclusions

This study is the largest evaluation of FI in orthopedics literature to date. We found a median FI that was comparable to or higher than FIs calculated in other orthopedic subspecialties. Although the mean and median FIs were greater than the 2 recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines to demonstrate strong evidence, a large percentage of studies have an FI < 2. This suggests that the TJA literature is on par or slightly better than other subspecialties, but improvements must be made.

Level of Evidence

Level I; Systematic Review.

Blood loss and transfusion rate compared among different dosing regimens of tranexamic acid administration in patients undergoing hip hemiarthroplasty for femoral neck fracture: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) administration is a proven safe and effective method for reducing both blood loss and transfusion in total joint arthroplasty. However, data specific to its efficacy in hip hemiarthroplasty (HHA) for femoral neck fracture are scarce. Furthermore, no study has investigated the efficacy of an additional dose of TXA administration. Accordingly, this study aimed to assess blood loss and the transfusion rate compared among different regimens of TXA administration in patients undergoing HHA for femoral neck fracture.

METHODS

Between January 2019 to December 2020, 90 HHA patients were randomized into one of three groups (30 patients/group). Control group patients received intravenous normal saline solution (NSS) 20 mL before skin incision, and NSS 20 mL at 3 hours after surgery. one-dose (1D) group patients received 750 mg of intravenous TXA before skin incision, and NSS 20 mL at 3 hours after surgery. Two-dose (2D) group patients received 750 mg of intravenous TXA before skin incision, and 750 mg of TXA at 3 hours after surgery. The primary outcome was blood transfusion rate. Intraoperative blood loss, hemoglobin levels at 24- and 48-hours postoperation, and calculated total blood loss were compared among the three groups.

RESULTS

The mean age of the study population was 79.7 years, and 76.7% of participants were women. The transfusion rate in the control, 1D and 2D groups was 43.3%, 16.7%, and 3.3%, respectively. Total hemoglobin loss; total red blood cell loss; intraoperative blood loss; hemoglobin level at 24- and 48-hours postoperation; change in hemoglobin level between 0 and 24 hours, and between 0 and 48 hours; blood transfusion rate; and, the number of patients who did not require blood transfusion were all significantly improved in the 2D group compared to baseline. No parameters were significantly improved in the 1D group compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study demonstrate both the efficacy of TXA administration in HHA, and the superiority of two-dose TXA administration over one-dose TXA administration in HHA for femoral neck fracture.

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.

First Comparative Study of the Effectiveness of the Use of Tranexamic Acid against ε-Aminocapróic Acid via the Oral Route for the Reduction of Postoperative Bleeding in TKA: A Clinical Trial

Total primary knee replacement results in significant postoperative bleeding. There are reports that 20 to 50% of the patients require a blood transfusion, which has been related to many complications, resulting in the search for strategies to reduce bleeding. The use of oral antifibrinolytics is becoming a low cost and safe way of achieving this goal. The hypothesis of this study was that the use of oral aminocaproic acid could provide similar results to the use of oral tranexamic acid (TXA). The purpose was to compare the effects of oral aminocaproic acid as a hemostatic agent versus the use of oral TXA administered in multiple doses pre and postsurgery in patients undergoing total primary knee replacement. We enrolled 92 patients that were randomly divided into two groups: received three doses of aminocaproic acid (2,000 mg per dose) or three doses of oral TXA (1,300 mg per dose). The drugs were administered according to the following schedule: 2 hours before surgery and 6 and 12 hours after surgery. The variables that were analyzed to compare the effectiveness of the hemostatic agents were total blood loss; hidden blood loss; external blood loss; transfusion rate; intraoperative blood loss; decreases in hemoglobin and hematocrit values; surgical drainage output; visual analogue scale; and surgical complications. There were no significant differences between any of the study variables for the group receiving oral aminocaproic acid and the group receiving oral TXA (p > 0.05), with the exception of patients who received TXA, who presented with more adverse events (p = 0.04). Our study showed that the use of oral aminocaproic acid was similar to its counterpart TXA regarding the evaluated parameters. Although patients who received TXA presented an average of 140 mL less blood loss than patients in the ε-ACA group, the difference did not appear to be clinically important, the transfusion rate was very low, and there were no between-group differences in postoperative complications.

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.

Stretching Force of Incision Affects Early Clinical Results After Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the impact of different skin incisions on recovery from total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

This is a retrospective study conducted in a tertiary hospital. A total of 1210 patients accepted primary and unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) at the authors' affiliated institutions between January 2015 and January 2019. Patients who accepted primary and unilateral TKA due to OA under epidural anesthesia were included. Excluded cases included patients who had no completed follow-up; preoperative flexion contracture greater than 15° and preoperative flexion less than 90°; paresthesia in lower limb; scar within the knee area; patella alta or baja. We recorded and analyzed the following data, including each patient's characteristics, incision stretching index (IS index), perioperative information, and follow-up assessments. Patients were grouped by trisecting the range of IS index we observed in the present study. The primary outcome measure was the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score rated on a scale of 0-10 from no pain to severe pain. Secondary outcome measures include knee girth reflecting postoperative swelling, knee range of motion (ROM), sensory testing, and the strength of quadriceps. These measures were completed 2 weeks postoperatively.

RESULTS

A total of 1089 patients undergoing primary and unilateral TKA in our two institutions were screened for final analysis, and 121 ones were excluded. The patients were followed up for an average of 13.3 months postoperatively. The mean length of FL was 28.3 cm (range: 21.0-38.8 cm). The mean IS index was 2.7 cm (range: 0.4-5.1 cm). We found no significant difference in those data among groups (P > 0.05). VAS pain scores among group IS A, IS B, and IS C were significantly different (2.3 ± 0.6 vs 3.4 ± 1.6 vs 3.9 ± 1.5, P = 0.0001). Similar situations were seen in knee circumference, ROM, area of abnormal sensation, and quadriceps strength among groups (all P < 0.05). With the increase in the IS index, VAS pain score, knee circumference, area of abnormal sensation, and incision problems were significantly increased (P < 0.05). At the same time, ROM and the strength of quadriceps decreased (P < 0.05). With the increase in the IS index, the number of patients with incision problems was increased significantly (P < 0.05). Besides, no significant difference in PJI and DVT among groups was observed (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Proper incision stretching can improve postoperative pain relief, surgical swelling, ROM, sensory disturbance of the knee, and the strength of quadriceps with reduced risk of incision complications.

Tranexamic Acid Use in Foot and Ankle Surgery

Background:

There is a potential role for tranexamic acid (TXA) use in foot and ankle procedures; however, the benefits of this intervention have not been fully elucidated. The purpose of this study was to explore the safety, outcomes, and medical complication profile of the use of intravenous TXA in patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.

Methods:

A prospective study with retrospective review of 241 patients undergoing elective and traumatic foot and ankle procedures was performed. One gram of intravenous (IV) TXA was administered prior to incision. Patients were followed and evaluated for medical comorbidities, intraoperative blood loss, wound complication, superficial and deep infections, hematoma formation, medical complications, 30-day hospital readmission rate, and return visits to the emergency department or urgent care setting prior to first postoperative visit. Descriptive statistics were used for subgroup analysis. Mean postoperative follow-up was 4.5 months.

Results:

Estimated blood loss in all cases was less than 20 mL. There was 1 case of superficial cellulitis (1/241, 0.4%), 1 deep infection after Achilles tendon repair (1/241, 0.4%), 4 cases of delayed wound healing (4/241, 1.6%), 1 instance of deep vein thrombosis (1/241, 0.4%), and 2 cases of postoperative pulmonary embolism (2/241, 0.8%). There were no instances of postoperative hematoma formation. There were no additional recorded thromboembolic events. There were no adverse drug reactions. There were no 30-day hospital readmissions or return visits to the emergency department or urgent care setting before the first postoperative visit. In a subgroup analysis, there was no significant difference in wound complications or infections between nondiabetics and diabetics (P > .05) and traumatic and nontraumatic cases (P > .05).

Conclusions:

The use of IV TXA in foot and ankle surgeries was associated with low risk of wound complications, infections, hematoma formation, thromboembolic events, and overall complication rates with minimal side effect profile. Perioperative tranexamic acid use may prove to be beneficial in foot and ankle surgery patients but especially in higher-risk patients such as those with diabetes, trauma, and those that are immunocompromised.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, case series.

Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Wound Complications and Blood Loss in Total Ankle Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a medication that has been shown to decrease blood loss and risk of blood transfusion in total knee and total hip arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the use of TXA in patients undergoing total ankle arthroplasty (TAA). We hypothesized there would be less blood loss and wound complications in patients receiving TXA.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 2 patient cohorts operated on by 2 surgeons was performed from 2010 to 2018. We compared a group of TAA patients that did not receive TXA vs a subsequent group that received TXA. Patients received 1g intravenous TXA before the tourniquet was inflated followed by another 1 g after release of the tourniquet. Intraoperative blood loss was recorded and preoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were compared to postoperative levels. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were compared between the 2 groups. A total of 119 patients were included in the study, of whom 55 received TXA. No significant difference existed between the 2 groups in gender, age, body mass index, or Charlson comorbidity index.

RESULTS

There was no difference in estimated blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin/hematocrit values or preoperative to postoperative change in hemoglobin/hematocrit values. Additionally, there was no difference in wound complications or overall complication rate between the groups.

CONCLUSION

TXA has been shown to be effective in total knee and total hip arthroplasty in decreasing blood loss and transfusion risk. We did not find it to be effective in reducing intraoperative blood loss, perioperative blood loss, or wound complications in TAA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, comparative study.

Efficacy and safety of systemic tranexamic acid administration in total knee arthroplasty: A case series

•

Tranexamic acid (TXA) can be administered via the intravenous (IV) and/or topical (intra-articular, IA) route, which can possibly interrupt the cascade of events due to hemostatic irregularities close to the source of bleeding.

•

IV TXA was found to be beneficial in terms of blood loss, blood transfusions, and postoperative hemoglobin drop without increasing thromboembolic complications.

•

Our recommendation that 1 g of TXA in IV be given 30 min prior to incision.

Introduction

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) are associated with significant postoperative blood loss. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a potent agent with antifibrinolytic activity, that can be administered via the intravenous (IV) and/or topical (intra-articular, IA) route, which can possibly interrupt the cascade of events due to hemostatic irregularities close to the source of bleeding. However, the literature contains scarce scientific evidence related to IV only TXA usage in TKA. The current study aims to compare the outcome between patients who were administered IV TXA and a control group in terms of blood loss, transfusion rate, and incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and thromboembolism (TE).

Methods

110 patients, who underwent TKA were placed into two groups: 1) 34 patients who received IV TXA; and 2) 76 patients in the control group. In the TXA group, patients received an IV TXA dose of 1 g, 30 min before incision. Two drains were placed.

Results

Usage of IV TXA showed better results when compared to the control group in terms of mean blood transfusion (0.5 less transfusion during hospital stay), hemoglobin drop (10%). No cases of DVT or TE were noted among the two study groups.

Conclusion

Use of IV TXA provided significantly better results compared to no TXA use with respect to all variables related to postoperative blood loss in TKA. Moreover, TXA use is safe in terms of incidence of symptomatic DVT and TE.

Effectiveness and safety of the use of antifibrinolytic agents in total-knee arthroplasty: A meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Antifibrinolytic agents have been successfully used to reduce blood transfusion demand in patients undergoing elective knee arthroplasty. The purpose of this study was to investigate different antifibrinolytic agents for patients undergoing total-knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

We searched the randomized controlled trials assessing the effect of antifibrinolytic agents on TKA in MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library. Participants are divided into antifibrinolytic agent group and control group under TKA. Double extraction technology is used and the quality of its methodology is evaluated before analysis. Outcomes analyzed included blood loss, number of blood transfusions, rates of blood transfusion, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

RESULTS

A total of 28 randomized controlled trials involving 1899 patients were included in this study. Compared with the control group, the antifibrinolytic agents group exhibited significantly reduced the amounts of total blood loss (weighted mean difference [WMD] with 95% confidence interval [CI]: -272.19, -338.25 to -206.4), postoperative blood loss (WMD with 95% CI: -102.83, -157.64 to -46.02), average units of blood transfusion (risk ratio with 95% CI: 0.7, 0.12 to 0.24), and average blood transfusion volumes (WMD with 95% CI: -1.34, -1.47 to -1,21). Antifibrinolytic agents significantly reduced the rate of blood transfusions and did not increase the occurrence risk of intraoperative blood loss and DVT. Several limitations should also be acknowledged such as the heterogeneity among the studies.

CONCLUSION

The application of antifibrinolytic agents can significantly reduce blood loss and blood transfusion requirements. Additionally, these agents did not increase the risk of DVT in patients undergoing TKAs.

Tourniquet and tranexamic acid use in total knee arthroplasty

Background

There is no consensus on how tourniquet and tranexamic acid (TXA) use in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) affect blood transfusion rates and total blood loss. We compared outcome measures and transfusion rates after TKA, with and without the use of tourniquet and TXA.

Methods

A retrospective study of 477 consecutive patients undergoing primary TKA between 2008 and 2013 was performed. There were 243 in the tourniquet-assisted (TA) and 234 in the tourniquet-unassisted (TU) group. Operative times, hemoglobin levels, blood transfusion rates, complications, and length of stay were assessed. Subanalysis was performed on those patients receiving and not receiving TXA within the TU group.

Results

Mean operative duration was 66.4 minutes in the TA group and 87.5 minutes in the TU group (P < .0001). Mean postoperative drop in hemoglobin was greater in TU group (3.1 g/dL vs 2.8 g/dL, P = .002). The transfusion rate was 9.5% in TA compared with 11.5% in TU patients (P = .46) with comparable mean units transfused (2.6 vs 2.2, P = .30). There was no difference in wound infection (P = .82) and total complication rates (P = .27) between groups. Those patients given TXA had a lower hemoglobin drop (2.6 g/dL vs 3.3 g/dL, P = .04) with similar transfusion (13.3% vs 11%, P = .61) and complication (P = .95) rates.

Conclusions

TU TKA had a greater operative duration and postoperative drop in hemoglobin than TA TKA. However, transfusion rates were similar between groups. TXA use reduced the operative decrease in hemoglobin with no effect on complication or transfusion rates.

Level of Evidence

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Efficacy of the Combined Administration of Systemic and Intra-Articular Tranexamic Acid in Total Hip Arthroplasty Secondary to Femoral Neck Fracture: A Retrospective Study

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is associated with substantial blood loss in the postoperative course. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a potent antifibrinolytic agent, routinely administered by intravenous (IV) and topical (intra-articular, IA) route, which can possibly interrupt the cascade of events due to hemostatic irregularities close to the source of bleeding. However, scientific evidence of combined administration of TXA in THA secondary to a femoral neck fracture is still meagre. The present study aims to compare the patients who were administered combined IV and topical TXA with a control group in terms of blood loss, transfusion rate, and incidence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and thromboembolism (TE). Patients and Methods. 195 patients with femoral neck fracture underwent THA and were placed into two groups: (1) IV and IA TXA group which had 58 patients and (2) no TXA control group which had 137 patients. In the TXA group, 1 g IV TXA was administered 30 minutes before incision, and 1 g IA TXA was administered intraoperatively after fascia closure. No drains were placed, and soft spica was applied to the hip.

Results

Combined usage of IV and IA TXA showed better results when compared to the control group in terms of blood transfusion rate (31%) and hemoglobin drop (28%). No cases of DVT or TE were noted among the two study groups.

Conclusion

Combined use of IV and IA TXA provided significantly better results compared to no TXA use with respect to all variables related to postoperative blood loss in THA. Moreover, TXA use is safe in terms of incidence of symptomatic DVT and TE.

Tranexamic Acid in Patients With Cancer Undergoing Endoprosthetic Reconstruction: A Retrospective Review

INTRODUCTION

Endoprosthetic reconstruction presents a significant risk of perioperative blood loss. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent used to reduce blood loss in orthopaedic procedures. The safety and efficacy of TXA in arthroplasty are well documented. There is, however, a dearth of literature exploring the safety and efficacy of TXA in musculoskeletal oncology patients. This retrospective, comparative study explores the effects of TXA on perioperative blood loss, blood transfusion rates, venous thromboembolism (VTE) occurrence, and hospital stay in patients undergoing resection of an aggressive bone tumor and endoprosthetic reconstruction.

METHODS

For the study, charts from a total of 90 patients who underwent resection of an aggressive bone tumor and endoprosthetic reconstruction were reviewed; of these patients, 34 were in the TXA group and 56 in the non-TXA group. Study participants composed of a heterogeneous group of patients with primary bone sarcoma and metastatic osseous disease. Patients in the TXA group received 1 g of topical TXA administered into the wound bed before closure. The Hemoglobin Balance method was used to calculate blood loss. Patients were followed for 6 weeks.

RESULTS

Patients undergoing proximal femur replacement and distal femur replacement in the TXA group experienced a 796 and 687 mL reduction in 72-hour mean blood loss, respectively (P = 0.0003 and P = 0.006). Average blood transfusions decreased by 0.45 U of packed red blood cells per patient in the TXA group (P = 0.048) and transfusion incidence decreased by 21.1% compared with the non-TXA group (P = 0.04). Patients undergoing proximal femur replacement in the TXA group left the hospital 2.2 days earlier than those in the non-TXA group (P = 0.0004). No increase in VTE rate was observed with TXA use.

DISCUSSION

This study found results similar to total joint arthroplasty with regard to TXA's effect on perioperative blood loss, transfusion rates, hospital stay, and VTE occurrence. It provides initial data to support the efficacy of topical TXA use in this patient cohort.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective cohort study.

Long-Term Sustainability of a Quality Initiative Program on Transfusion Rates in Total Joint Arthroplasty: A Follow-Up Study

BACKGROUND

There are significant variations in transfusion rates among institutions performing total joint arthroplasty. We previously demonstrated that implementation of an educational program to increase awareness of the American Association of Blood Banks' transfusion guidelines led to an immediate decrease in transfusion rates at our facilities. It remained unclear how this initiative would endure over time. We report the long-term success and sustainability of this quality program.

METHODS

We reviewed the Michigan Arthroplasty Collaborative Quality Initiative data from 2012 through 2017 of all patients undergoing primary hip and knee arthroplasty at our institutions for preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin level, transfusion status, and number of units transfused and transfusions outside of protocol to identify changes surrounding our blood transfusion educational initiative. We calculated the transfusions prevented and cost implications over the course of the study.

RESULTS

We identified 6645 primary hip and knee arthroplasty patients. There was a significant decrease in transfusion rate and overall transfusions in each group when compared to pre-education values. Subgroup analysis of TKA and THA independently showed significant decreases in both transfusion rate and overall transfusions. Over the final 3 years of the study, only 2 patients were transfused outside of the American Association of Blood Banks protocol. We estimate prevention of 519 transfusions over the study period.

CONCLUSION

Application of this quality initiative was an effective means of identifying opportunities for quality improvement. The program was easily initiated, had significant early impact, and has been shown to be sustainable.

Advantages of clamping and drainage over continuous drainage in a total knee arthroplasty

INTRODUCTION

The use of closed-suction drainage systems after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is common practice in India, but with no consensus on its use. In this retrospective study, we compared whether clamped or unclamped drainage has any advantages over the other in unilateral TKA.

METHODS

Group-A (n = 351) had an unclamped drain removed at 24 h postoperative, with measurement of total drainage at 24 h between January 2011 and February 2013. Group B (n = 349) had drains kept for a total of 8 h-clamped for the first 4 h and unclamped for a further 4, between March 2013 to September 2016. Drainage volume, as well as the hemodynamic markers-hemoglobin (Hb) drop, transfusion rate were evaluated.

RESULTS

Mean drain output in Group- A was significantly higher than Group- B (215.64 ml versus 28.34 ml). The postoperative Hb was significantly higher in Group-B (11.46 g/dl versus 10.57 g/dl). Mean Hb drop was significantly higher in Group A (2.16  g/dl versus 1.18 g/dl). The transfusion rates were lower in Group-B, though not statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The 4- hour clamping method effectively reduces drain output and fall in hemoglobin. For those who continue using closed suction drains, clamping could prove to be an effective way of reducing post-operative blood loss and the need for transfusions.

Finding the Optimal Regimen for Oral Tranexamic Acid Administration in Primary Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have confirmed that, compared with intravenous and intra-articular formulations, oral tranexamic acid (TXA) provides equivalent reduction in blood loss, at a substantially reduced cost and greater ease of administration. However, the optimal oral dosage regimen to achieve maximum blood-loss reduction remains unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of a regimen of multiple doses of oral TXA on blood loss in primary total hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

In this randomized controlled trial, 200 patients were randomized to 1 of 4 interventions. Group A received a single dose of 2.0 g of TXA orally at 2 hours preoperatively. In addition to this same preoperative dose, Group B received 1.0 g of TXA orally at 3 hours postoperatively, Group C received 1.0 g of TXA orally at 3 and 9 hours postoperatively, and Group D received 1.0 g of TXA orally at 3, 9, and 15 hours postoperatively. All patients received a 1.0-g topical dose of TXA. The primary outcome was total blood loss. Secondary outcomes included hemoglobin reduction, transfusion rate, thromboembolic complications, and adverse events.

RESULTS

The mean total blood loss (and standard deviation) was significantly less in Groups B, C, and D (792.2 ± 293.0, 630.8 ± 229.9, and 553.0 ± 186.1 mL, respectively) than in Group A (983.6 ± 286.7 mL) (p < 0.001). Moreover, Groups C and D had a lower mean reduction in hemoglobin than did Groups A and B. However, no differences were identified between Groups C and D for blood loss and hemoglobin reduction. Additionally, no differences were observed among the groups regarding thromboembolic complications and transfusions.

CONCLUSIONS

The multiple postoperative doses of oral TXA further reduced blood loss compared with a single preoperative bolus. The regimen of a preoperative dose and 3 postoperative doses of oral TXA produced maximum effective reduction of blood loss in total hip arthroplasty.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Comparison of Floseal® and Tranexamic Acid for Bleeding Control after Total Knee Arthroplasty: a Prospective Randomized Study

OBJECTIVE

Tranexamic acid (TXA) and the hemostatic agent Floseal® have already been used to minimize bleeding during total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, randomized study of 90 patients with indications for TKA. Following inclusion, the participants were randomly allocated in blocks to the following 3 groups: control, Floseal® and TXA. Bleeding parameters, including decreases in hemoglobin (Hb), drain output, number of blood transfusions and complications, were assessed. ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02152917.

RESULTS

The mean decrease in Hb was highest in the control group (4.81±1.09 g/dL), followed by the Floseal® (3.5±1.03 g/dL) and TXA (3.03±1.2 g/dL) groups. The Floseal® and TXA groups did not differ, and both performed better than the control group. The mean total drain output was 901.3±695.7 mL in the control group, 546.5±543.5 mL in the TXA group and 331.2±278.7 mL in the Floseal® group. Both TXA and Floseal® had significantly less output than the control group, and Floseal® had significantly less output than TXA. The number of blood transfusions was very small in all 3 groups.

CONCLUSION

The use of TXA or Floseal® was associated with less blood loss than that of the control group among patients undergoing primary TKA, as measured both directly (intraoperative bleeding + drainage) and on the basis of a decrease in Hb, without differences in the rate of complications. TXA and Floseal® showed similar decreases in Hb and total measured blood loss, but the drain output was smaller in the Floseal® group.

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.

The antifibrinolytic and anti-inflammatory effects of multiple doses of oral tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty patients: a randomized controlled trial

Essentials Perioperative blood loss and inflammatory response can significantly affect recovery after surgery. We studied the effects of multiple-dose oral tranexamic acid on blood loss and inflammatory response. A postoperative four-dose regimen brought about maximum reduction in postoperative blood loss. A postoperative four-dose regimen reduced inflammatory response and promoted early rehabilitation. SUMMARY: Background Tranexamic acid (TXA) can reduce blood loss and the inflammatory response at multiple doses in total knee arthroplasty patients. However, the optimal regimen has not been determined. Objectives To identify the most effective regimen for achieving maximum reductions in blood loss and the inflammatory response. Patients/Methods Two hundred and seventy-five patients were randomized to receive a placebo (group A), a single 2-g oral dose of TXA 2 h preoperatively followed by 1 g of oral TXA 3 h postoperatively (group B), a single dose followed by 1 g of oral TXA 3 h and 7 h postoperatively (group C), a single dose followed by 1 g of oral TXA 3 h, 7 h and 11 h postoperatively (group D), or a single dose followed by 1 g of oral TXA 3 h, 7 h, 11 h and 15 h postoperatively (group E). The primary outcome was total blood loss on postoperative day (POD) 3. Secondary outcomes included a decrease in the hemoglobin level, coagulation parameters, inflammatory marker levels, and thromboembolic complications. Results Groups D and E had significantly lower blood loss and smaller decreases in hemoglobin level than groups A, B, and C, with no significant difference on POD 3 between groups D and E. Significantly enhanced coagulation was identified for the four multiple-dose regimens; however, all thromboelastographic parameters remained within normal ranges. Group E had the lowest inflammatory marker levels and pain, and the greatest range of motion. No thromboembolic complications were identified. Conclusion The four-dose regimen yielded the maximum reductions in blood loss and inflammatory response, improved analgesia, and promoted early rehabilitation. Further studies are required to ensure that these findings are reproducible.

Intramedullary versus extramedullary alignment guides on total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis

AIM

A meta-analysis concentrated on the effect of intramedullary and extramedullary systems on total knee arthroplasty.

METHOD

Potential academic articles were identified from Cochrane Library, Medline, PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, CNKI, WanFang, VIP and other databases. The STATA version was used to analyze the pooled data.

RESULTS

There are obvious significant differences in drainage volume and transfusion rate. There was no significant difference in lower limb coronal alignment, coronal and sagittal alignment of the femoral component, operation time, postoperative knee score and complications.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis shows that the alignment of the extramedullary distal femur osteotomy is as accurate as intramedullary systems. Furthermore, extramedullary distal femur osteotomy without invading the femoral medullary cavity could reduce postoperative bleeding and the transfusion rate. Furthermore, research is required to test the robustness of our findings when more data is available and by undertaking both Bayesian and frequentist methods. When more data are available, the heterogeneity can be further explored through sensitivity analysis, and the available data can be combined to verify the hypothesis.

Intra-Articular Tranexamic Acid Injection During the Hip Hemi-Arthroplasty in Elderly Patients: A Retrospective Study

Introduction:

The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of intra-articular injection of tranexamic acid (TXA) in patients between 80 and 100 years of age with femoral neck fracture undergoing hip hemi-arthroplasty (HA).

Material and Methods:

We conducted a retrospective review to assess perioperative blood loss and transfusion rate after intra-articular injection of TXA during HA. This was a single-center, retrospective, single-surgeon, and standard care cohort study covering the period between January and December 2016. One hundred three consecutive patients undergoing HA under spinal or general anesthesia were included. Fifty-four and 49 patients received and did not receive intra-articular injection of TXA during the HA, respectively. After closing the capsule, 50 mL of a TXA solution at a concentration of 1 g/100 mL of saline was injected into joint capsule. We compared the following outcomes: preoperative hemoglobin (HB) level, postoperative day 1 HB level, postoperative day 3 HB level, the net reduction of HB level by postoperative day 3, transfusion rate, and 30- and 90-day postoperative mortality rates. In addition, we use logistic regression to analyze the factors affecting the transfusion rate.

Result:

Day 3 postoperative HB level and the net reduction in HB level within 3 days following surgery were 93.22 ± 11.70 g/L and 25.98 ± 6.29 g/L in TXA group, respectively, while were 87.10 ± 10.52 g/L and 35.44±8.61 g/L in no-TXA group. Transfusion rate was 9% (5/54) in TXA group and 24% (12/49) in no-TXA group, respectively. The differences were statistically significant between the both groups. Logistic regression indicated that the topical administration of TXA would reduce the risk for transfusion, while in male diabetes mellitus would increase the risk. There were no significant differences in the deep venous thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and mortality rates of 30 and 90 days postoperatively (P > .05).

Discussion:

Because of lower systemic absorption and a higher concentration in the wound, topical use of TXA is safer for elderly patients who may have renal or liver dysfunction. TXA at therapeutic concentration does not affect platelet count, platelet aggregation, or coagulation parameters, and is of value in elderly patients who take antiplatelet drug for secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Conclusion:

For patients between 80 and 100 years of age with femoral neck fracture undergoing HA, intra-articular injection of TXA may reduce the perioperative blood loss and transfusion rate without increasing risk of thrombosis.

Acute Blood Loss Anemia in the Octogenarian Total Knee Arthroplasty, Estimated Blood Loss and Transfusions Rates

INTRODUCTION

Acute blood loss anemia is an expected morbidity after a total knee replacement. The purpose of this study is to quantify the rates of blood transfusions in the octogenarian population after a total knee replacement and its association with the surgeon's estimated blood loss (EBL).

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of the senior orthopedic surgeon's charts. All patients were 80 years of age, or older at the time of surgical intervention. All patients with the diagnosis of primary osteoarthritis where included.

RESULTS

A total 74 total knee arthroplasties were considered, in a total of 64 patients. Overall, 53% patients had an uneventful stay without a blood transfusion. The rates of transfusions increased with EBLs of 200, 250, and >250 ml with rates of 43%, 80%, and 55 % respectively. The average hematocrit of all patients that were transfused was 33.98, compared to 38.20 for the patients that were not transfused.

CONCLUSION

47% of patients required a blood transfusion during their hospital course regardless of the EBL estimated by the surgeon during surgery. The average hematocrit was found to be lower in the group that was transfused.

PUBLICATION INDICES

Pubmed.

Severe and morbid obesity and transfusional risk in total knee arthroplasty: An observational study

BACKGROUND

Severe and morbid obesity (Class II -III) represents a challenge for successful knee surgery. There isn't consensus on what influence body mass index has on blood loss and on red blood cell (RBC) transfusion during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The objective was to determine blood loss and transfusion needs in severe and morbid obese patients undertaking TKA.

METHODS

We recorded retrospectively all patients undergoing TKA. Obesity was assessed according to WHO guidelines. Perioperative haemoglobin and treatments for its optimisation were recorded. Blood losses were estimated from specific formulae for lost red-cell mass and percentage of lost blood volume.

RESULTS

922 patients were included: 35.90% were obese Class I and 18.76% obese Class II - III. Estimated blood volume was 4390  ±  470 ml, 4736  ±  423 ml and 5030 ± 464 ml among non-obese, obese Class I and obese Class II-III, respectively (P < 0.001). The global estimated blood volume (EBV) lost was 1502  ±  680 ml without differences between the three groups. However, the percentage of lost blood volume was lower in obese Class II -III (29.65%) than in non-obese (33.55%) and obese Class I (30.97%) (P < 0.005). Transfusion rates were 12.7%, 12.1% and 6.4% for non-obese, obese Class I and Class II -III, respectively (P = 0.062). A negative transfusion risk was predicted for Class II -III patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Severely and morbidly obese patients did not show greater blood loss nor higher RBC transfusion needs after primary TKA than non-obese and obese Class I patients. This could be because obese Class II -III patients had higher EBV but similar RBC losses.

Similar thromboprophylaxis with rivaroxaban and low molecular weight heparin but fewer hemorrhagic complications with combined intra-articular and intravenous tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of the combined intravenous and intra-articular administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) to control the collateral effects and complications of rivaroxaban (RIV) after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and to compare thromboprophylaxis schemes with and without TXA, RIV and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively studied 158 TKA patients from 2014 to 2018. The patients were randomly assigned into three groups. Group A (46 patients) was administered intravenous and intra-articular TXA and RIV postoperatively; group B (58 patients) was administered TXA as in group A and LMWH postoperatively; and group C (54 patients) was administered saline as in group A and RIV postoperatively. We evaluated blood loss, transfusion requirements and hemorrhagic complications.

RESULTS

Hct and Hb values significantly decreased in group C compared to groups A and B, without any difference between groups A and B. Suction drain blood volume output was significantly higher in group C compared to group A and B, without any difference between group A and B. Hemorrhagic complications were more common in group C. No patient experienced clinical findings of VTE.

CONCLUSION

Combined intravenous and intra-articular administration of TXA is safe and effective in TKA, with fewer hemorrhagic complications compared to placebo. Thromboprophylaxis with RIV and LMWH is similar.

The efficacy and safety of combined administration of intravenous and topical tranexamic acid in primary total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND

The combined administration of intravenous (IV) and topical tranexamic acid (TXA) in primary total knee (TKA) knee remains controversial. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to assess the efficacy and safety of combined administration of IV and topical TXA in primary TKA.

METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, Google Search Engine and China National Knowledge Infrastructure databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were comparing the combined administration of IV and topical TXA following primary TKA. The primary outcomes were total blood loss, maximum hemoglobin drop, and deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE). The second outcomes were drainage volume and transfusion requirements. Data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3.

RESULTS

A total of 6 RCTs involving 701 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The combined group provided lower total blood loss (MD - 156.34 mL, 95% CI, - 241.51 to - 71.18; P = 0.0003), drainage volume (MD - 43.54 mL, 95% CI, - 67.59 to - 19.48; P = 0.0004), maximum hemoglobin drop (MD - 0.56 g/dl, 95% CI, - 0.93 to - 0.19; P = 0.003) than IV TXA alone. No significant difference were found in terms of transfusion requirements (RR 0.48, 95% CI, 0.16 to 1.44; P = 0.19), DVT (RR 1.01, 95% CI, 0.14 to 7.12; P = 0.99) and PE (RR 0.33, 95% CI, 0.01 to 7.91; P = 0.49) between the two group. Subgroup analyses shows that the combined group was less total blood loss in non-tourniquet (P = 0.0008), topical TXA dose > 1.5 g (P <  0.00001) and number of IV TXA ≥ 2 doses (P = 0.005) of TXA compared with the IV group alone.

CONCLUSIONS

The available evidence indicates combined group were associated with lower total blood loss, drainage volume, and maximum hemoglobin drop. A similar transfusion requirement was found in both groups. Subgroup analyses demonstrates that total blood loss was less in patients with non-tourniquet, topical TXA dose > 1.5 g and number of IV TXA ≥ 2 doses of TXA. There was no increase the rates of DVT and PE.

Blood-conserving efficacy of multiple doses of oral tranexamic acid associated with an enhanced-recovery programme in primary total knee arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

Aims

The aim of this study was to identify the most effective regimen of multiple doses of oral tranexamic acid (TXA) in achieving maximum reduction of blood loss in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Patients and Methods

In this randomized controlled trial, 200 patients were randomized to receive a single dose of 2.0 g of TXA orally two hours preoperatively (group A), a single dose of TXA followed by 1.0 g orally three hours postoperatively (group B), a single dose of TXA followed by 1.0 g three and nine hours postoperatively (group C), or a single dose of TXA followed by 1.0 g orally three, nine, and 15 hours postoperatively (group D). All patients followed a routine enhanced-recovery protocol. The primary outcome measure was the total blood loss. Secondary outcome measures were hidden blood loss (HBL), reduction in the level of haemoglobin, the rate of transfusion and adverse events.

Results

Groups C (661.1 ml, sd 262.4) and D (597.7 ml, sd 219.6) had significantly lower mean total blood loss compared with groups A and B. The mean HBL was significantly lower in groups B (699.2 ml), C (533.1 ml) and D (469.9 ml) than in group A (p = 0.006, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Groups C (2.22 ml, sd 0.91) and D (2.04 ml, sd 0.95) had a lower reduction in the level of haemoglobin than groups A and B. However, there were no differences between groups C and D in relation to the three parameters.

Conclusion

The addition of two or three postoperative doses of TXA to one preoperative dose produced a significant reduction in blood loss. The two-dose postoperative regimen is the least necessary regimen for clinical efficacy in primary unilateral TKA. The three-dose regimen produced maximum reduction of blood loss. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2018;100-B:1025–32.

Effect of a 12-hour natural drainage technique on decreasing blood loss after total knee arthroplasty: a case-control study

Background

Different methods of drainage have been used in patients with osteoarthritis after total knee arthroplasty (TKA), but the ideal strategy is controversial. This retrospective case-control study reported a technique of 12-hour natural drainage and aimed to confirm its efficacy and safety in the treatment for blood loss following TKA.

Methods

There were 231 patients divided into three groups who underwent TKA from January 2014 to July 2017: 76 patients underwent 12-hour natural drainage in Group A, 80 patients underwent 4-hour clamping drainage in Group B, and 75 patients underwent continuous drainage in Group C. All perioperative clinical data were reviewed for statistical analysis.

Results

The drainage volume and total blood loss after TKA were significantly lower in Group A than that in the other two groups (P<0.05), and serum level of hemoglobin was significantly higher in Group A than that in the other two groups (P<0.05). The maximum of active motion of the knee was greater in Group C at 2 days (P<0.05). Significantly more patients in Group C required blood transfusions (P<0.05). No difference was found in the complication rate among the three groups.

Conclusion

The 12-hour natural drainage is an effective technique for reducing blood loss for patients following TKA. Compared with temporary clamping drainage and continuous negative pressure drainage, 12-hour natural drainage decreases blood loss, reduces post-operative transfusion requirements, and does not increase the risk of complications. Therefore, this technique of 12-hour natural drainage is recommended to be used in patients after TKA.

The Robustness of Trials That Guide Evidence-Based Orthopaedic Surgery

BACKGROUND

The fragility index (FI) may prove to be a powerful metric of trial robustness. The FI is the minimum number of patient events that would need to become nonevents in order to nullify a significant result. The fragility quotient (FQ) is the FI divided by the total sample size. This study evaluates the robustness of the 20% of orthopaedic clinical trials that were cited as having strong evidence in the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Clinical Practice Guidelines and that could be analyzed with these indices.

METHODS

From the AAOS recommendations with strong evidence, we extracted the randomized controlled trials that were cited as having supporting evidence that could be analyzed with the FI. Each trial's FI was calculated using the fragility calculator (http://www.fragilityindex.com). With use of the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2.0, we evaluated the likelihood of bias. We also performed a post hoc power analysis of eligible studies.

RESULTS

The median FI for the 72 trials was 2 events, and the median FQ was 0.022. Of the 72 trials, only 3 (4.2%) were at a low risk of bias, and 35 (48.6%) were at a high risk of bias. Thirty-eight (53%) of the trials were underpowered. We identified a strong correlation between a trial's FI or FQ and the trial's power.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study found that trials that provided strong evidence for orthopaedic surgery guidelines were largely fragile, underpowered, and at risk of bias.

The optimal protocol to reduce blood loss and blood transfusion after unilateral total knee replacement: Low-dose IA-TXA plus 30-min drain clamping versus drainage clamping for the first 3 h without IA-TXA

INTRODUCTION

Although intraarticular tranexamic acid (IA-TXA) administration or drainage clamping are popular methods used to reduce blood loss after total knee replacement (TKR), the protocol remains controversial. We aimed (1) to establish new protocols through investigating whether two methods, that is, low-dose (500 mg) IA-TXA plus 30-min drain clamping and drainage clamping for the first 3 h without IA-TXA, can reduce blood loss and blood transfusion after unilateral TKR and (2) to make recommendations related to clinical application.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study, conducted from September 2014 to June 2016 related to enrolled 95 patients with primary osteoarthritis who were to have a unilateral cemented TKR, was nonrandomized and retrospective. In group A, the drain was released following tourniquet deflation. In group B, 500-mg TXA was injected into the knee joint via a drain tube after fascia closure and the drain was clamped for the first 30 min to prevent leakage. In group C, the drain was clamped for the first 3-h postoperation. Demographic characteristics and clinical data were collected, including the levels of hematocrit (Hct), the total blood loss (TBL), drained blood volume (BV), the amount of blood transfused, and any complications that developed.

RESULTS

We found a significantly lower postoperative TBL, drained BV, decreasing Hct level, and less transfused BV in the IA-TXA injection group (group B) and the 3-h drainage clamping group (group C) compared to the conventional negative drainage group (group A; p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between groups B and C ( p = 0.99).

CONCLUSIONS

The drainage clamping method can be safer than IA-TXA administration in patients with risk factor of venous thromboembolic complication. Furthermore, the IA-TXA administration can be more optimal than drainage clamping in patients with high bleeding tendency or lateral retinacular release during TKR, who would be concerned about postoperative wound complication.

The efficacy and safety of multiple-dose oral tranexamic acid on blood loss following total hip arthroplasty: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSES

To explore the efficacy and safety of multiple-dose oral tranexamic acid (TXA) on blood loss following primary total hip arthroplasty (THA).

METHODS

A total of 152 patients were randomized into three groups to receive 2 g of oral TXA two hours  pre-operatively (group A), or another bolus of 2 g of oral TXA four hours post-operatively (group B), or another three boluses of 2 g of oral TXA four, ten, and 16 hours post-operatively (group C). The primary outcomes were total blood loss (TBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), and transfusion rate. The secondary outcomes were haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Hct) drop, the level of fibrinolysis parameters (fibrin degradation products, D-dimer), and complications (thrombotic diseases, stroke, cardiac infarction, and infection).

RESULTS

The mean TBL and HBL in group C were lower than those in group A (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001) and group B (p = 0.012 and p = 0.029). The Hb drop on post-operative day one (POD1) and POD3 in group C was lower than those in group A (p < 0.001 and p = 0.029) and group B (p < 0.001 and p = 0.004). The difference was similar regarding Hct drop on POD3 (p < 0.001 and p = 0.014). Moreover, fibrin degradation products and D-dimer in group C were lower than in groups A and B on POD1 and POD3 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001). The incidence of complications such as venous thromboembolism did not differ significantly among the three groups (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple boluses of oral TXA could further reduce blood loss, Hb and Hct drop, and restrain post-operative fibrinolysis in primary THA without increasing the risk of complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I

Therapeutic study.

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.

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.