The effect of different dosage regimens of tranexamic acid on blood loss in bimaxillary osteotomy: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

Effectiveness of tranexamic acid on intra- and postoperative bleeding in Bimaxillary osteotomies: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

Perioperative bleeding is a serious concern during orthognathic surgery. Tranexamic acid (TXA), a synthetic lysine analog with antifibrinolytic properties, reduces blood loss across various surgical fields. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of preoperative TXA administration in reducing intraoperative and postoperative blood loss following combined Le Fort I and sagittal split ramus osteotomies at our hospital.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent combined Le Fort I and sagittal split ramus osteotomies between November 2017 and October 2022. The primary outcome was the volume of intraoperative blood loss.

RESULTS

Among 1,329 eligible patients, 87 were included in the analysis (32 in the TXA group and 55 in the control group, where no TXA was administered). The median (interquartile range) intraoperative blood loss was 200.0 (157.5-237.5) mL in the TXA group and 260.0 (180.0-350.0) mL in the control group, showing a significant difference between the groups (p = 0.0365). However, postoperative blood drainage within 24 h and 24-48 h did not differ significantly between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A single intravenous administration of TXA was associated with a decrease in intraoperative bleeding without severe adverse events during combined Le Fort I and sagittal split ramus osteotomies. However, postoperative blood loss, nausea, vomiting, and autologous blood transfusion were not significantly associated with this administration.

Does tranexamic acid really matter in reducing blood loss? A critical evaluation of its efficacy in orthognathic surgery through a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is acknowledged for reducing blood loss and transfusion requirements in various surgical specialties, yet its role in orthognathic procedures is less defined. Our study seeks to fill this knowledge gap by reviewing the available data and summarising the efficacy and clinical outcomes of TXA in orthognathic surgery. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis, searching five databases for studies until 16 April, 2023. Our key outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, postoperative bleeding, and transfusion rate. Previous weaknesses in systematic review and meta-analyses (SRMA) were identified using Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2). The risk of bias was evaluated with the RoB-2 tool. A total of 15 studies were included, involving a combined total of 1060 patients. Compared with the control, the TXA group demonstrated significant reductions in intraoperative blood loss (mean difference -135.60 mL; p < 0.00001; 95% CI, -177.51 to -93.70 mL), Hb level drop (mean difference: 2.67 [-0.63, 5.98]), and improved surgical field visibility [p < 0.00001. (MD -0.99) (CI -1.11 to -0.86)]. No significant differences were observed in postoperative haematocrit levels (mean difference: -0.42 [-2.19, 1.35]; p = 0.003; I2 = 75%), operation duration (p = 0.21), or duration of hospital stay (p = 0.63) between TXA and control groups. In orthognathic surgery, TXA effectively minimises blood loss, demonstrating both safety and efficiency. Well-designed, larger studies and comparisons with other haemostatic agents could solidify TXA evidence.

Postoperative nausea and vomiting in orthognathic surgery: systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) is a frequently reported adverse event following orthognathic surgery. The aim of this work is to conduct a systematic review of the literature on the subject, and to discuss the role of maxillofacial surgeons and the steps that can be taken to prevent or control PONV in orthognathic surgery.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines, using the search strategy: (orthognathic AND (nausea OR vomiting)). The authors searched PubMed, Embase, Dimensions, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases, without any language restrictions. RevMan 5.4 was used to create a risk of bias graph and a forest plot.

RESULTS

The included articles were classified as having a low risk of bias, despite the limited literature on the subject. Various measures have been reported to be beneficial in preventing or managing PONV, such as the use of dexamethasone, antiemetic drugs, gastric aspiration, and anesthetic blocks. Effective bleeding control and faster surgeries can also be helpful.

CONCLUSIONS

Throat packs have not been found to be effective in preventing PONV. Although no definitive protocol has been established in the literature, the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocol could be a useful approach. Overall, a multimodal approach may be taken to prevent PONV, and further research is needed to establish definitive protocols.

Comprehensive evaluation of advanced platelet-rich fibrin in common complications following sagittal split ramus osteotomy: a double-blind, split-mouth, randomized clinical trial

The sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) carries potential risks and complications. A double-blind, split-mouth, randomized clinical trial was performed, involving 30 patients undergoing mandibular setback. Advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) was applied to one side, and the other side served as a control. The volume of postoperative drainage over 24 h was recorded. At 1, 2, and 5 days, and 3 months postsurgery, nerve recovery was assessed using the two-point discrimination test (TPD), while pain was evaluated using a visual analogue scale (VAS pain). Facial swelling was evaluated by taking linear measurements from facial reference points at the same time intervals. In the treatment group, the 24-hour drainage volume was lower (P = 0.011), pain was better on day 5 (P = 0.011), and TPD was better on day 2 (P = 0.011), day 5 (P = 0.007), and 3 months postoperatively (P = 0.020) than in the control group. There was also less facial swelling in the treatment group when compared to the baseline of 3 months postoperative (day 1, P = 0.012; day 2, P = 0.001; day 5, P = 0.011). The difference in bone mineral density (HU) at 3 months between the treatment group (469.7 ± 134.2) and the control group (348.3 ± 127.2) was statistically significant (P = 0.011), in favour of the treatment group. A-PRF may reduce postoperative complications such as neurosensory disturbance of the inferior alveolar nerve, pain, swelling, and drainage while enhancing bone healing in the osteotomy gap following SSRO. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The study was registered with the Chinese Clinical Trial Register (ChiCTR2200064534).

Optimizing drug regimens and supplementation in orthognathic surgery: A comprehensive and practical guide

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to comprehensively review the literature and provide a practical guide for optimizing drug regimens and supplementation related to orthognathic surgery.

METHODS

The authors conducted a thorough review of the existing literature, following the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Various types of studies except case reports and reviews were included. The study applied specific inclusion criteria, focusing on perioperative and/or postoperative drugs, medications, or supplementation related to orthognathic surgery.

RESULTS

This guide included 78 studies on various medications in orthognathic surgery. It encompasses clinical trials, cohort studies, cross-sectional studies, prospective and retrospective studies. The topics covered include antibiotics, analgesics, corticosteroids, antiemetics, hemostatic agents, local anesthetics, herbal medicine, and botulinum toxin. Pain and edema control involved specific medications, while local anesthesia utilized ropivacaine and bupivacaine. The guide also discusses mineral and vitamin supplementation. The effectiveness of hemostatic agents and antiemetics was highlighted.

CONCLUSION

Pain management, reduced swelling, enhanced wound healing, and faster recovery are among the advantages. In addition to the standard drugs and medications, the inclusion of vitamin and mineral supplements, tranexamic acid, postoperative anesthetic blocks, and preemptive antiemetics is anticipated to offer various benefits in orthognathic surgery, despite the limited available evidence.

Intravenous Application of Tranexamic Acid in Patients Undergoing Plastic Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis with GRADE Quality Assessment

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a versatile antifibrinolytic agent that is widely used in modern surgeries. This review assessed the safety and efficacy of intravenous (IV) TXA in plastic surgery versus controls.

METHODS

This review selected English-language Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating IV TXA effects in plastic surgery from four electronic databases, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to April 9, 2023. Primary outcomes were blood loss volume (BLV) and transfusion occurrence, with operation time and surgical field assessment as secondary outcomes. IV TXA-related complications were also important indicators. Meta-analyses and qualitative analyses were conducted and the quality of the evidence was assessed.

RESULTS

Thirty RCTs with 2150 patients were included. The total standard mean difference (SMD) of BLV and pooled relative risk of transfusion occurrence between the IV TXA and the control groups were - 1.11 (95% CI, - 1.42 to - 0.80) and 0.36 (95% CI, 0.23 to 0.55) respectively, indicating a significant blood loss reduction with IV TXA treatment, while an ambiguous outcome of operation time was observed, with an SMD of - 0.22 (95% CI, - 0.42 to - 0.02). The quality of evidence for BLV and transfusion occurrence was low and medium, respectively. A quantitative analysis of surgical field assessment was not performed because of the substantial heterogeneity in scoring methods. No IV TXA-related complications were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In plastic surgery, IV TXA administration results in less blood loss, reduced need for transfusion and better surgical fields but probably does not increase the risk of adverse events.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE I

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine Ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Outpatient orthognathic surgery: a prospective study of predictive factors for the length of hospital stays

OBJECTIVES

Transitioning from non-outpatient orthognathic surgery to outpatient surgery is a new challenge, and it is essential to target the eligible population as precisely as possible. Several authors describe series of outpatient orthognathic surgery but do not include the reasons for their success or failure. The main aim of this study was to identify the factors significantly associated with "successful" outpatient orthognathic treatment. The secondary objective was to determine the factors significantly associated with prolonged hospital stays (≥ 2 nights).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective cohort study including patients undergoing orthognathic surgery was conducted over a period of 1 year. We recorded the prognostic factors that contributed to successful outpatient treatment and prolonged hospital stays. These factors were evaluated by bivariate and multivariate analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 102 patients were included, and the success rate of treatment was 65%. The variables that were isolated by multivariate analysis were: patients over the age of 22, procedures ending before 1 pm, brief operations, the absence of both postoperative vomiting and the administration of morphine.

CONCLUSION

Patient selection, organisation of outpatient facilities and anaesthetic protocols contribute to the development of outpatient orthognathic surgery. These initial considerations provide a framework for our practice, but the considerations that predict the failure of outpatient surgery will need to be clarified.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Orthognathic surgery can be performed on outpatient basis in selected cases. Age, the operative time, procedure end time, postoperative vomiting and the administration of morphine are associated with the success of outpatient care.

The Efficacy of Tranexamic Acid in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

This study aimed to evaluate the use of tranexamic acid in craniomaxillofacial surgery by meta-analysis. A comprehensive search was performed for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) mainly in 3 electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library) before August 2022. We collected and managed data for weighted mean difference of intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirement, and operation time for the study. A total of 13 randomized controlled trials were included in the analysis. Compared with the control group, the tranexamic acid group showed a reduction in intraoperative blood loss of 198.67 ml (95% CI: -258.84 to -138.50 ml, P <0.00001), with blood transfusion requirement decreased by 7.77 ml/kg (95% CI: -10.80 to -4.73, P <0.0001) and less operation time (weighted mean difference= -10.39 min; 95% CI: -16.49 to -4.30 min, P =0.0008).

The Influence of Bolus of Methylprednisolone on Postorthognathic Surgery Symptoms: A Controlled Clinical Trial

OBJECTIVE

Despite improvements in maxillary and mandibular osteotomy, complications still result in around 20%. Post and intraoperative standard therapies, based on the use of betamethasone and tranexamic acid, could help to minimize the onset of side effects. The aim of the study was to compare the role of a supplementary bolus of methylprednisolone rather than the standard therapy in the onset of postoperative symptoms.

METHODS

The authors enrolled 10 patients, affected by class 2 and 3 Dentoskeletal, submitted to the institution for maxillomandibular repositioning osteotomy between October 2020 and April 2021. Patients were divided into 2 groups as follows: 5 patients (group A ) received standard therapy consisting of the administration of 4 mg of betamethasone, intraoperatively, and 1 g of tranexamic acid in 2 administrations. The remaining 5 patients (group B ) received a supplementary bolus of 20 mg methylprednisolone before the end of the surgery.All patients received, in the postoperative period, 4 mg of betamethasone every 12 hours, for 3 days. Postoperative outcomes were evaluated with a questionnaire evaluating speaking discomfort, pain when swallowing, feeding discomfort, drinking discomfort, swelling, and ache. Each parameter was associated with a numeric rating scale ranging from 0 to 5.

RESULTS

The authors observed that patients treated with a supplementary bolus of methylprednisolone (group B ) had a statistically significant reduction of all postoperative symptoms as compared with patients of group A (* P < 0.05, ** P <0.01 Fig. 1 ).

CONCLUSION

The study highlighted that the additional bolus of methylprednisolone improved all of the 6 parameters investigated by the questionnaire submitted to patients, resulting in a faster recovery and improvement of the patient's compliance with surgery. Further studies with a larger population are needed to confirm preliminary results.

Systematic mapping review of orthognathic surgery

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic mapping review AIM AND SCOPE: The objective of this mapping review was to identify, describe, and organize clinical research currently available from systematic reviews and primary studies regarding co-interventions and different surgical modalities used in orthognathic surgery (OS) and their outcomes.

METHODS

Systematic reviews (SRs), randomized controlled trials, and observational studies that evaluated perioperative OS co-interventions and surgical modalities were identified in an exhaustive search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Epistemonikos, Lilacs, Web of Science, and CENTRAL. Grey literature was also screened.

RESULTS

Included were 35 SRs and 253 primary studies, 103 from SRs, and another 150 identified in our search. Overall, SR quality was rated as critically low, with only two SRs rated as of high quality. 19 questions on population, interventions, comparisons, and outcomes (PICO) extracted from the SRs focused on osteosynthesis methods, surgical cutting devices, and use of antibiotics, corticosteroids, and induced hypotension. Also identified were 15 research gaps. Evidence bubble maps were created to graphically depict the available evidence.

CONCLUSION

Future high-quality research, both primary and secondary, is needed to address the knowledge gaps identified in this systematic mapping review.

Gender-specific differences in haemostatic parameters and their influence on blood loss in bimaxillary surgery

Objective

The objectives of this prospective cohort study were to establish gender-related differences in blood loss and haemostatic profiles associated with bimaxillary surgery. In addition, we aimed to identify if any gender differences could be established which might help predict blood loss volume.

Materials and methods

Fifty-four patients (22 males; 32 females) undergoing bimaxillary surgery for skeletal dentofacial deformities were eligible for inclusion. Blood samples were taken 1 day preoperatively and 48 h postoperatively for detailed gender-specific coagulation analysis incorporating global coagulation assays (endogenous thrombin potential) and specific coagulation parameters. Blood loss was measured at two different time points: (1) the end of surgery, visible intraoperative blood loss (IOB) using ‘subtraction method’; and (2) 48 h postoperatively perioperative bleeding volume (CBL-48 h) using ‘haemoglobin-balance method’ and Nadler’s formula. Correlation and regression analyses were performed to identify relevant parameters affecting the amount of blood loss.

Results

Significant differences in IOB and CBL-48 h were observed (p < 0.001). Men had higher IOB versus women, lacking statistical significance (p = 0.056). In contrast, men had significantly higher CLB-48 h (p = 0.019). Reduced CBL-48 h was shown to be most closely associated with the level of Antithrombin-III being decreased in females.

Conclusions

Male gender is associated with higher IOB and CBL-48 compared with females. Gender does not affect IOB regarding haemostatic profile but does correlate strongly with procedure length. Conversely, CBL-48 is closely associated with gender-specific imbalances in the anticoagulant system.

Clinical relevance

Knowledge of gender-related differences will help clinicians establish predictive factors regarding excessive blood loss in orthognathic surgery and identify at-risk patients.

Predictors of Blood Loss During Orthognathic Surgery and the Need for Pre-Deposit Autologous Blood Donation

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to identify the clinico-laboratory predictors of relative blood loss (RBL) during orthognathic surgery and determine the need for predeposit autologous blood donation (PABD) for the surgery. Using a retrospective study design, 297 patients who underwent bimaxillary orthognathic surgery between 2016 and 2020 were enrolled. To investigate patient-specific risk factors, we calculated the allowable blood loss (ABL) for each patient and RBL as the ratio of estimated intraoperative blood loss (EIBL) to ABL. The correlations between the clinico-laboratory variables and EIBL and RBL were analyzed using stepwise multivariate regression analysis, and independent t test and one-way ANOVA were performed.There was no significant difference in transfusion rate between the PABD group (N = 202/279) and non-PABD group (N = 77/279) (P = 0.052). Sex (P < 0.001), body mass index class (P = 0.001), operative time (P < 0.001), and baseline hematocrit (P < 0.001) were significant predictors of EIBL and RBL. EIBL exceeded ABL in only 2 patients. The significant factors of RBL in orthognathic surgery were hematocrit, body mass index, and operative time. Clinicians should be more careful about bleeding in patients with low baseline hematocrit level or high body mass index, or those expected to undergo prolonged surgeries owing to a complicated surgical plan. The need for PABD before orthognathic surgery is low.

The effect of tranexamic acid on blood loss in orthognathic surgery: a randomized, placebo-controlled, equivalence study

Orthognathic surgery can cause substantial bleeding. Recent meta-analyses concluded that there is a statistically significant reduction in perioperative blood loss with the preventive use of tranexamic acid (TA). However, the mean reported difference in bleeding was moderate, and the clinical relevance of this blood-sparing effect remains debated. We therefore conducted a prospective, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled equivalence study of the effect of TA in patients undergoing Lefort I or bimaxillary osteotomies. Our main outcome measure was total blood loss on postoperative day 1. The equivalence margin was ± 250 ml for the difference in blood loss and its 95% confidence interval. One hundred and forty-seven patients were randomized, of which 122 underwent bimaxillary osteotomies. Blood loss in the treatment group was 682 ± 323 vs. 875 ± 492 ml. The mean difference in bleeding was -132 [-243; -21] ml as per-protocol, but -193 [-329; -57] ml in intention-to-treat: the limits of this confidence interval exceeded the margin of equivalence. Similar results were obtained when analysing only patients undergoing bimaxillary osteotomy. Haemoglobin decreased by 1.8 ± 1.2 g/dl with TA, vs. 2.6 ± 1.1 g/dl with placebo (p<0.001). Our study did not demonstrate equivalence between TA and placebo on perioperative blood loss in orthognathic surgery. TA may reduce blood loss but without evidence of clinical consequences.

Determination of blood loss in bimaxillary surgery: does the formula and the time point affect results?

The amount of blood loss determined in orthognathic surgery differs greatly among studies. This can be attributed to the inhomogeneity in study cohorts analysed, but may also be a result of the varying methodologies used for blood loss determination. However, this has yet to be explored. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the extent to which the formula and time point used to measure blood loss affect the blood loss volume, determined in a homogeneous cohort undergoing bimaxillary surgery. Blood loss was calculated at 24 and 48 hours postoperatively using the haemoglobin balance method and the formula of Hurle et al. The estimated total blood volume was established based on the formulae of Nadler et al. and Choi et al. Differences in blood loss volume with respect to time point and formula were analysed and compared. Fifty-four patients were included in the final analysis. Statistically significant differences in blood loss were observed: a significant increase in the blood loss volume from 24 hours to 48 hours postoperatively was detected. When comparing the formulae used, blood loss differed significantly at 24 hours after surgery; however no such difference resulted at 48 hours postoperatively. These findings imply that the time point of measuring blood loss is highly relevant, whereas the formulae applied seem to have less of an impact on the blood loss volumes calculated.

Comparison of a fast track protocol and standard care after hip arthroplasty in the reduction of the length of stay and the early weight-bearing resumption: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

To date, hip arthroplasty is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures, with growing worldwide demand. In recent decades, major progress made in terms of surgical technique, biomechanics, and tribology knowledge has contributed to improve the medical and functional management of the patient. This study aims to assess if the application of a fast track protocol, consisting of a preoperative educational intervention, adequate postoperative pain control, and intensive rehabilitation intervention, reduces the length of stay (LOS) and allows the early functional recovery compared to standard clinical practice for patients undergoing hip arthroplasty.

METHODS

The study population consists of 90 patients with primary arthrosis of the hip with an anterior indication of hip arthroplasty. The exclusion criteria are older than 70 years, a contraindication to performing spinal anesthesia, and bone mass index (BMI) greater than 32. Participants, 45 for each group, are randomly allocated to one of two arms: fast track clinical pathway or standard care protocol. During allocation, baseline parameters such as Harris Hip Score (HHS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) index are collected. On the third postoperative day, the functional autonomy for each patient is assessed by the Iowa Level of Assistance (ILOA) scale, and it is expected the discharge for patients in the fast track group (primary outcome). On the other hand, standard care patient discharge is expected after 5-7 days after surgery. During follow-up fixed at 6 weeks and 3, 6, and 12 months, HHS and WOMAC scores are collected for each patient (secondary outcomes).

DISCUSSION

Although total hip replacement has become a widespread standardized procedure, to the authors' knowledge, only few randomized controlled trials were performed to evaluate the effectiveness of fast track pathway vs. standard care procedure in the reduction of the LOS after hip arthroplasty. It is expected that our results collected by the application of minimally invasive surgical interventions with concomitant management of perioperative pain and bleeding and early functional rehabilitation will contribute to enriching the understanding of clinical and organizational aspects linked to fast track arthroplasty.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03875976 . Registered on 15 March 2019-"retrospectively registered".

Effect of hydroxyethyl cellulose soluble hemostatic gauze on hemostasis in facial contouring surgery

BACKGROUND

In facial contour surgery, due to the narrow field of vision in the oral approach and the abundant blood supply to the maxillofacial area, hemostasis is not easy. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the hemostatic effect of soluble hemostatic gauze.

METHODS

We organized a prospective randomized study of 282 patients receiving facial contouring surgery (4 types of procedures in total) during 2016.1.1 to 2018.12.30. For each type of procedure, patients were randomly divided into study group (received hemostatic gauze) and control group (received sterile gauze). Two groups were compared for each type of procedure regarding 5 major perioperative variables: intraoperative blood loss, operation time, 24-hour postoperative drainage volume, total postoperative drainage volume, and postoperative drainage time. Correlation between variables was analyzed.

RESULTS

Compared with control group, the study group had higher amount of intraoperative blood loss in mandibular angle ostectomy (MAO) (P < .01) and mandibular angle-body-chin curved ostectomy procedures (P < .05), less total postoperative drainage volume in MAO (P < .01) but not in malarplasty with MAO and partial masseter muscle resection along with MAO procedures. No significant difference was observed between respective study and control groups regarding operation time, 24-hour postoperative drainage volume, and postoperative drainage time in any of the 4 types of surgery. In all 4 types of procedures, a strongly positive correlation was observed between total drainage volume and 24-hour drainage volume in both the study and control groups (r: 0.88-0.97, P < .01).

CONCLUSION

The effect of hydroxyethyl cellulose soluble hemostatic gauze on hemostasis in facial contouring surgery is associated with the type of surgery, which can reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding in MAO. However, for surgery with relatively large amount of intraoperative and postoperative bleeding, the hemostatic gauze had a limited postoperative hemostasis efficacy, which needs further evaluation.

Benefits of the enhanced recovery after surgery pathway for orthognathic surgery

The enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocol was designed to improve patient outcomes and decrease complications, opioid use, and postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV). The aim of this retrospective cohort study was to examine the effectiveness of ERAS protocols implemented in orthognathic surgeries from 2017 to 2018 at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital by measuring opioid use and PONV. Two groups were identified through chart review, a non-ERAS group (traditional) of patients who had surgery without a protocol and an ERAS group of patients who had surgery with the ERAS protocol. The anesthesia and surgical teams followed a standardized protocol for perioperative management. All procedures were performed by a single surgeon and included single- and double-jaw surgeries and adjunctive procedures. The patient charts were analyzed for postoperative opioid consumption (measured in morphine milligram equivalents, MME) and PONV. IBM SPSS Statistics version 26 was used to conduct the statistical analyses. The ERAS group received less opioids during the postoperative period than the control group (31.2 MME vs 54.6 MME, P= 0.002). The ERAS group also had a lower incidence of PONV, with 1.2 episodes of PONV compared to 2.4 episodes in the non-ERAS group (P= 0.008). This study demonstrates that the ERAS protocol is effective in decreasing postoperative opioid consumption and PONV.

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.

A Single Preoperative Dose of Tranexamic Acid Reduces Perioperative Blood Loss: A Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To review the efficacy and safety of a single dose of intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) given preoperatively.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

TXA is a synthetic antifibrinolytic that has been used in various surgical disciplines to reduce blood loss, blood transfusions, ecchymosis, and hematoma formation. However, there is no universal standard on the most effective dose and route of TXA administration, limiting its routine use in many centers. This study evaluates the current evidence for the efficacy and safety of a single preoperative dose of TXA on surgical blood loss in all surgical disciplines.

METHODS

With the guidance of a research librarian, in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook Medline, Cochrane Central and Embase were searched in November 2018. Search terms included "Tranexamic Acid" AND "Intravenous," with studies limited to randomized controlled trails in adult humans. Two independent reviewers and an arbitrator assessed articles for inclusion. Criteria included a single preoperative bolus dose of intravenous TXA, surgical patients, and intraoperative blood loss measurement or perioperative blood loss up to 24 hours postsurgery. Quality assessment was done using the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool by 2 reviewers. Statistical analysis was carried out using Cochrane Review Manager 5.3. The primary outcome was surgical blood loss. Secondary outcomes included venous thromboembolic complications, transfusion requirements, and dosing.

RESULTS

A total of 1906 articles were screened, 57 met inclusion criteria. The majority of included studies were orthopedic (27), followed by obstetric and gynecological (16), oral maxillofacial and otolaryngology (10), cardiac (3), and 1 plastic surgery study focusing on acute burn reconstruction. Across all surgical specialties (n = 5698), the perioperative estimated blood loss was lower in patients receiving TXA, with a standard mean difference of -153.33 mL (95% CI = -187.79 to -118.87). Overall, surgical patients with TXA had a 72% reduced odds of transfusion (odds ratio = 0.28 [95% CI = 0.22-0.36]). The most frequently used dose of TXA was 15 mg/kg. There was no difference in the incidence of venous thromboembolic events between TXA and control groups.

CONCLUSIONS

While there is a growing body of evidence to support benefits of perioperative TXA use, this is the first meta-analysis to identify the efficacy and safety of a single preoperative dose of IV TXA. The potential implications for expanding the use of preoperative TXA for elective day surgery procedures is substantial. Preoperative intravenous TXA reduced perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in a variety of surgical disciplines without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, it should be considered for prophylactic use in surgery to reduce operative bleeding.

Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid in Bimaxillary Orthognathic Surgery

Background

Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used during craniofacial and orthognathic surgery (OS). However, results of the literature are inconsistent due to specific type of surgery and a small sample of studies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of TXA in bimaxillary OS.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and EMBASE to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared effect of TXA on bimaxillary OS with placebo. Outcomes of interests included intraoperative blood loss, allogenic transfusion, operation time, and volume of irrigation fluid. Random effects models were chosen considering that heterogeneity between studies was anticipated, and I ² statistics were used to test for the presence of heterogeneity.

Results

Totally 6 RCTs were identified. Tranexamic acid resulted in significantly reduced intraoperative blood loss (weighted mean difference [WMD] = -264.82 mL; 95% CI: -380.60 to -149.04 mL) and decreased amounts of irrigation fluid (WMD = -229.23 mL; 95% CI: -399.63 to -58.83 mL). However, TXA had no remarkable impact on risk of allogenic blood transfusion (pooled risk ratio = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.20-1.23), operation time (WMD = -8.71 min; 95% CI: -20.98 to 3.57 min), and length of hospital stay (WMD = -0.24 day; 95% CI: -0.62 to 0.14 day). No TXA-associated severe adverse reactions or complications were observed.

Conclusions

Currently available meta-analysis reveals that TXA is effective in decreasing intraoperative blood loss; however, it does not reduce the risk of allogenic blood transfusion in bimaxillary OS.

The Role of Antifibrinolytics in Reducing Blood Loss During Craniofacial or Orthognathic Surgical Procedures: A Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

Use of antifibrinolytic drugs in craniofacial and orthognathic surgery seems quite promising and has strong advocates. However, supporting evidence is controversial and limited by a small sample of individual studies. We sought to systematically review and meta-analyze the available data regarding the role of preoperative or intraoperative antifibrinolytic drugs (eg, tranexamic acid, aprotinin, or aminocaproic acid) in craniofacial and orthognathic surgery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science through April 19, 2018, according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Outcomes of interest included the volume of blood loss, volume of transfusions, and operative time. A meta-analysis was performed with a random-effects model using Review Manager (RevMan) software (The Cochrane Collaboration, Copenhagen, Denmark).

RESULTS

We identified 32 eligible studies with 749 patients undergoing craniofacial surgery and 546 undergoing orthognathic surgery. Meta-analysis showed that antifibrinolytic use led to statistically significant decreases in blood loss and blood transfusions for craniofacial procedures in adult or pediatric patients and to significantly less blood loss during orthognathic surgical procedures. Operative time did not significantly differ for either type of surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Antifibrinolytics can significantly reduce blood loss in craniofacial surgical procedures including pediatric craniosynostosis and adult rhinoplasties and in orthognathic surgical procedures, as well as transfusion requirements in pediatric craniofacial surgical procedures. However, the clinical significance of the medications is still questionable because of the relative paucity of information on adverse effects and the usual small volume loss during those operations.