Minimizing Transfusions in Primary Cranial Vault Remodeling: The Role of Aminocaproic Acid

Optimizing Blood Loss and Management in Craniosynostosis Surgery: A Systematic Review of Outcomes Over the Last 40 Years

Surgical correction of craniosynostosis can involve significant blood loss. Rates of allogenic blood transfusion have been reported to approach 100%. Multiple interventions have been described to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements. The aim of this study was to analyze various approaches over the last 4 decades to optimize blood loss and management during craniosynostosis surgery.

PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews were followed. PubMed and Cochrane database searches identified studies analyzing approaches to minimizing blood loss or transfusion rate in craniosynostosis surgery.

Primary outcomes included rate or amount of allogenic or autologous blood transfusion, estimated blood loss (EBL), postoperative hemoglobin (Hg), or hematocrit (Hct) levels. Secondary outcomes were examined when reported.

Fifty-two studies met inclusion criteria. There was marked heterogeneity regarding design, inclusion criteria, surgical intervention, and endpoints. The majority of the studies were nonrandomized and noncomparative. Four studies analyzed erythropoietin (EPO), 6 analyzed various cell-saver (CS) technologies, 18 analyzed antifibrinolytics (tranexamic acid [TXA], aminocaproic acid [ACA], and aprotinin [APO]), 8 analyzed various alternatives, and 16 analyzed multimodal pathways & protocols. Some studies analyzed multiple approaches.

Although the majority of studies reviewed represent level III/IV evidence, several high-quality level I studies were identified and included. Level I evidence supported an improvement in blood outcomes by utilizing EPO, CS, and TXA, individually or in concert with one another. Thus, this review suggests that a multi-prong approach may be the most effective means to optimize blood loss and transfusion outcomes in craniosynostosis surgery.

The Optimal Dose, Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid and Epsilon-Aminocaproic Acid to Reduce Bleeding in TKA: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

The optimal dose and efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) and epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were under controversial, and we aimed to make comparisons between different doses of TXA and EACA in intravenous (IV) or intra-articular (IA) applications in patients undergoing TKA.

METHODS

This network meta-analysis was guided by the Priority Reporting Initiative for Systematic Assessment and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). According to the administrations of antifibrinolytic agents, patients in eligible studies were divided into three subgroups: (i) IA applications of TXA and EACA; (ii) IV applications (g) of TXA and EACA; (iii) IV applications (mg/kg) of TXA and EACA. Total blood loss (TBL), hemoglobin (HB) drops and transfusion rates were the primary outcomes, while drainage volume, pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk were the secondary outcomes. A multivariate Bayesian random-effects model was adopted in the network analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 38 eligible trials with different regimens were assessed. Overall inconsistency and heterogeneity were acceptable. Taking all primary outcomes into account, 1.0-3.0 g TXA were most effective in IA applications, 1-6 g TXA and 10-14 g EACA were most effective in IV applications (g), while 30 mg/kg TXA and 150 mg/kg EACA were most effective in IV applications (mg/kg). None of the regimens showed increasing risk for pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) compared with placebo.

CONCLUSION

0 g IA TXA, 1.0 g IV TXA or 10.0 g IV EACA, as well as 30 mg/kg IV TXA or 150 mg/kg IV EACA were most effective and enough to control bleeding for patients after TKA. TXA was at least 5 times more potent than EACA.

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

OBJECTIVES

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Combination of Intravenous and Intra-Articular Application of Tranexamic Acid and Epsilon-Aminocaproic Acid in Primary Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

There were limited randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) versus tranexamic acid (TXA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy and safety of TXA and EACA in the combination of intravenous (IV) and intra-articular (IA) administration on reducing blood loss in patients following primary TKA.

METHODS

From January 2020 to January 2021, a total of 181 patients undergoing a primary unilateral TKA were enrolled in this prospective randomized controlled trial. Patients in the TXA group (n = 90) received 20 mg/kg of intravenous TXA preoperatively, 1 g of intra-articular TXA intraoperatively, and three doses of 20 mg/kg intravenous TXA at 0, 3, 6 h postoperatively. Patients in the EACA group (n = 91) received 120 mg/kg of intravenous EACA preoperatively, 2 g of intra-articular EACA intraoperatively, and three doses of 40 mg/kg intravenous EACA at 0, 3, 6 h postoperatively. The primary outcomes were total blood loss (TBL), transfusion rates and drop of hemoglobin (HB) level. The secondary outcomes included postoperative hospital stays and postoperative complications. The chi-square tests and Fisher's exact tests were utilized to compare categorical variables, while the independent-samples t-tests and Mann-Whitney tests were used to compare continuous variables.

RESULTS

The patients who received TXA averaged less TBL than the patients who received EACA (831.83 ml vs 1065.49 ml, P = 0.015), and HB drop in TXA group was generally less than that of EACA group on postoperative day 1 and 3 (20.84 ± 9.48 g/L vs 24.99 ± 9.40 g/L, P = 0.004; 31.28 ± 11.19 vs 35.46 ± 12.26 g/L, P = 0.047). The length of postoperative stays in EACA group was 3.66 ± 0.81 day, which is longer than 2.62 ± 0.68 day in TXA group (P < 0.001). No transfusions were required in either group. The risk of nausea and vomiting in TXA group was significantly higher than that in EACA group (11/90 vs 0/91, P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Although the TBL and HB drop were slightly greater in EACA group, these results were not clinically important, given that no transfusions were required. EACA could be an alternative to TXA, especially for patients with severe nausea and vomiting after using TXA postoperatively. Further studies are needed to adjust dosage of EACA to make better comparison of the two drugs.

Epsilon Aminocaproic Acid’s Safety and Efficacy in Pediatric Surgeries Including Craniosynostosis Repair: A Review of the Literature

Craniosynostosis, the premature fusion of skull sutures in children, requires surgical correction. This procedure routinely requires allogeneic blood transfusions, which are associated with multiple risks of their own. Since 2008, antifibrinolytics tranexamic acid (TXA) and epsilon aminocaproic acid (EACA or Amicar) have been widely used. There is literature comparing the two agents in scoliosis and cardiothoracic surgery, but the literature comparing the two agents in pediatric craniofacial surgery (CF) is limited. Tranexamic acid use is more common in pediatric CF surgery and has been thoroughly studied; however, it costs about three times as much as EACA and has been associated with seizures. This study compiles the literature assessing the safety and efficacy of EACA in reducing blood loss and transfusion volumes in children and explores its potential use in pediatric CF surgery.

Papers from 2000 to 2021 regarding the effectiveness and safety of EACA in Pediatric scoliosis, cardiothoracic, and craniosynostosis surgery were reviewed and compiled. Papers were found via searching PubMed and Cochrane databases with the key terms: Epsilon aminocaproic acid, EACA, Amicar, Tranexamic acid, TXA, craniosynostosis, scoliosis, cardiothoracic, and pediatric. Prospective studies, retrospective studies, and meta-analyses were included.

Twenty-nine papers were identified as pertinent from the literature searched. Four were meta-analyses, 14 were retrospective, and 11 were prospective. Of these papers, seven were of cardiac surgery, 12 were of scoliosis, and nine were of craniosynostosis. During our search, EACA has been shown to consistently reduce blood transfusion volumes compared to control. However, it is not as effective when compared to TXA. EACA has a similar safety profile to TXA but has a reduced risk of seizures. There are not many studies of EACA in craniosynostosis repair, but the existing literature shows promising results for EACA's efficacy and safety, warranting more studies. 

Machine Learning Applied to Registry Data: Development of a Patient-Specific Prediction Model for Blood Transfusion Requirements During Craniofacial Surgery Using the Pediatric Craniofacial Perioperative Registry Dataset

BACKGROUND

Craniosynostosis is the premature fusion of ≥1 cranial sutures and often requires surgical intervention. Surgery may involve extensive osteotomies, which can lead to substantial blood loss. Currently, there are no consensus recommendations for guiding blood conservation or transfusion in this patient population. The aim of this study is to develop a machine-learning model to predict blood product transfusion requirements for individual pediatric patients undergoing craniofacial surgery.

METHODS

Using data from 2143 patients in the Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Perioperative Registry, we assessed 6 machine-learning classification and regression models based on random forest, adaptive boosting (AdaBoost), neural network, gradient boosting machine (GBM), support vector machine, and elastic net methods with inputs from 22 demographic and preoperative features. We developed classification models to predict an individual's overall need for transfusion and regression models to predict the number of blood product units to be ordered preoperatively. The study is reported according to the Transparent Reporting of a multivariable prediction model for Individual Prognosis Or Diagnosis (TRIPOD) checklist for prediction model development.

RESULTS

The GBM performed best in both domains, with an area under receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.87 ± 0.03 (95% confidence interval) and F-score of 0.91 ± 0.04 for classification, and a mean squared error of 1.15 ± 0.12, R-squared (R) of 0.73 ± 0.02, and root mean squared error of 1.05 ± 0.06 for regression. GBM feature ranking determined that the following variables held the most information for prediction: platelet count, weight, preoperative hematocrit, surgical volume per institution, age, and preoperative hemoglobin. We then produced a calculator to show the number of units of blood that should be ordered preoperatively for an individual patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Anesthesiologists and surgeons can use this continually evolving predictive model to improve clinical care of patients presenting for craniosynostosis surgery.

Impact of multidisciplinary engagement in a quality improvement blood conservation protocol for craniosynostosis

OBJECTIVE

Patients undergoing open cranial vault remodeling for craniosynostosis frequently experience substantial blood loss requiring blood transfusion. Multiple reports in the literature have evaluated the impact of individual blood conservation techniques on blood transfusion rates during craniosynostosis surgery. The authors engaged a multidisciplinary team and assessed the impact of input from multiple stakeholders on the evolution of a comprehensive quality improvement protocol aimed at reducing or eliminating blood transfusion in patients undergoing open surgery for craniosynostosis.

METHODS

Over a 4-year period from 2012 to 2016, 39 nonsyndromic patients were operated on by a single craniofacial plastic surgeon. Initially, no clear blood conservation protocol existed, and specific interventions were individually driven. In 2014, a new pediatric neurosurgeon joined the craniofacial team, and additional stakeholders in anesthesiology, transfusion medicine, critical care, and hematology were brought together to evaluate opportunities for developing a comprehensive blood conservation protocol. The initial version of the protocol involved the standardized administration of intraoperative aminocaproic acid (ACA) and the use of a cell saver. In the second version of the protocol, the team implemented the preoperative use of erythropoietin (EPO). In addition, intraoperative and postoperative resuscitation and transfusion guidelines were more clearly defined. The primary outcomes of estimated blood loss (EBL), transfusion rate, and intraoperative transfusion volume were analyzed. The secondary impact of multidisciplinary stakeholder input was inferred by trends in the data obtained with the implementation of the partial and full protocols.

RESULTS

Implementing the full quality improvement protocol resulted in a 66% transfusion-free rate at the time of discharge compared to 0% without any conservation protocol and 27% with the intermediate protocol. The administration of EPO significantly increased starting hemoglobin/hematocrit (11.1 g/dl/31.8% to 14.7 g/dl/45.6%, p < 0.05). The group of patients receiving ACA had lower intraoperative EBL than those not receiving ACA, and trends in the final-protocol cohort, which had received both preoperative EPO and intraoperative ACA, demonstrated decreasing transfusion volumes, though the decrease did not reach statistical significance.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients undergoing open calvarial vault remodeling procedures benefit from the input of a multidisciplinary stakeholder group in blood conservation protocols. Further research into comprehensive protocols for blood conservation may benefit from input from the full surgical team (plastic surgery, neurosurgery, anesthesiology) as well as additional pediatric subspecialty stakeholders including transfusion medicine, critical care, and hematology.

Optimizing Perioperative Red Blood Cell Utilization and Wastage in Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery

Utilization, wastage, and adverse consequences of assigning one full red blood cell (RBC) unit were investigated for children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery. The authors hypothesized that significant RBC wastage in the perioperative period exists for pediatric craniofacial surgery. The authors sought to determine what factors could guide patient-specific blood product preparation by evaluating utilization and wastage of RBCs in pediatric patients undergoing surgical correction of craniosynostosis. Eighty-five children with craniosynostosis undergoing surgical correction at our institution between July 2013 and June 2015 were identified. Fifty-three patients received RBC transfusion in the perioperative period, while 32 patients were not transfused. Primary outcome measures were intraoperative, postoperative, and total percent of RBC wastage. Secondary analysis compared the impact of patient weight and procedure type on perioperative RBC wastage. Of the 53 patients who received perioperative RBC transfusion, 35 patients received a volume of blood less than the full volume of the RBC unit while 18 patients received the full volume of blood. There was no significant relationship between perioperative RBC wastage, the type of craniofacial procedure performed, or the duration of surgical time. Children who received a perioperative transfusion and had RBC wastage weighed significantly less than those who received a full volume. These findings suggest that for craniofacial surgical patients weighing less than 10 kg, a protocol that splits cross-matched RBC units can decrease perioperative RBC wastage and blood donor exposure. A future prospective study will determine the success of this intervention as well as the potential to decrease exposure to multiple blood donors.

Operative Time as the Predominant Risk Factor for Transfusion Requirements in Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis Repair

Background:

Despite recent advances in surgical, anesthetic, and safety protocols in the management of nonsyndromic craniosynostosis (NSC), significant rates of intraoperative blood loss continue to be reported by multiple centers. The purpose of the current study was to examine our center’s experience with the surgical correction of NSC in an effort to determine independent risk factors of transfusion requirements.

Methods:

A retrospective cohort study of patients with NSC undergoing surgical correction at the Montreal Children’s Hospital was carried out. Baseline characteristics and perioperative complications were compared between patients receiving and not receiving transfusions and between those receiving a transfusion in excess or <25 cc/kg. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine independent predictors of transfusion requirements.

Results:

A total of 100 patients met our inclusion criteria with a mean transfusion requirement of 29.6 cc/kg. Eighty-seven patients (87%) required a transfusion, and 45 patients (45%) required a significant (>25 cc/kg) intraoperative transfusion. Regression analysis revealed that increasing length of surgery was the main determinant for intraoperative (P = 0.008; odds ratio, 18.48; 95% CI, 2.14–159.36) and significant (>25 cc/kg) intraoperative (P = 0.004; odds ratio, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.23–3.07) transfusions.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest increasing operative time as the predominant risk factor for intraoperative transfusion requirements. We encourage craniofacial surgeons to consider techniques to streamline the delivery of their selected procedure, in an effort to reduce operative time while minimizing the need for transfusion.

Postoperative Ketorolac Administration Is Not Associated with Hemorrhage in Cranial Vault Remodeling for Craniosynostosis

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs have been used as part of multimodal postoperative analgesic regimens to reduce the necessity of opioids. However, due to its effect on platelet function, there is a hesitation to utilize ketorolac postoperatively. The goal of this study is to analyze our experience utilizing ketorolac in patients who underwent major cranial vault remodeling (CVR) for craniosynostosis with an emphasis on postoperative hemorrhage and complications.

Perioperative Management and Factors Associated With Transfusion in Cranial Vault Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Bleeding is the most common adverse event in patients undergoing cranial vault reconstruction. The authors compare the transfusion rates against a national sample to determine whether the patients experience lower transfusion rates.

METHODS

The authors queried the Pediatric National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (Peds-NSQIP) for patients who underwent cranial vault reconstruction (CPT 61559) and compared them to patients who underwent cranial vault reconstruction for sagittal craniosynostosis at Children's Hospital and Medical Center (CHMC) in Omaha, Nebraska. Patients over the age of 24 months were excluded. Binary logistic regression analysis was performed using IBM-SPSS v24.0 to determine factors associated with transfusion at CHMC.

RESULTS

Patient demographics, preoperative hematocrit and platelet counts, readmission rates, and reoperation rates did not differ between CHMC (N = 54) and Peds-NSQIP (N = 1320) cohorts. Patients in the CHMC cohort had shorter preincision anesthesia times (47 versus 80 minutes, P < 0.001), shorter operative times (108 versus 175 minutes, P < 0.001), lower transfusion rates (50% versus 73%, P < 0.001), and smaller mean transfusion volumes (16 versus 33 mL/kg, P < 0.001); however mean length of stay was longer (4.1 versus 3.6 days, P < 0.001). Factors independently associated with transfusion at CHMC included preoperative hematocrit (odds ratio [OR] 0.423, P = 0.002), administration of an antifibrinolytic agent (OR 0.004, P = 0.001) and temperature at the time of incision (OR 0.020, P = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

Patients at CHMC require less transfused blood and experience low transfusion rates. Preoperative hematocrit, administration of antifibrinolytic agents, and temperature at the time of incision are all modifiable factors associated with perioperative transfusion.

Comparison of different dosage regimes of epsilon aminocaproic acid on blood loss in children undergoing craniosynostosis surgery

BACKGROUND

Open cranial vault reconstruction is frequently performed for craniosynostosis. These procedures often involve high volume blood loss that requires blood transfusion. Antifibrinolytics have been shown to decrease blood loss during these procedures but the optimal dose that maximizes benefits is not known.

AIMS

The primary aim was to evaluate the differences in calculated blood loss between a high infusion rate (40 mg/kg/h) and a low infusion rate (≤30 mg/kg/h) of epsilon aminocaproic acid after a 100 mg/kg loading dose. Secondary aims were to determine if a high infusion rate of epsilon aminocaproic acid was associated with decreased packed red cell transfusion volume and to determine the factors associated with blood loss.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of children who underwent open cranial vault reconstruction. Using an electronic medical record, we identified patients that fit the inclusion criteria. Demographic, laboratory, transfusion, and perioperative data were collected and statistical analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Fifty-three patients were included into the study with twenty-three receiving higher infusion rate (40 mg/kg/h) epsilon aminocaproic acid. There was a 14.3 mL/kg (95% CI 6.6-23.9) decrease in calculated blood loss in the high-dose cohort.

CONCLUSION

An EACA bolus of 100 mg/kg followed by an infusion of 40 mg/kg was associated with a lower calculated blood loss compared to the group who received 100 mg/kg EACA and ≤ 30 mg/kg infusion.

Tranexamic Acid Decreases Blood Transfusion Burden in Open Craniosynostosis Surgery Without Operative Compromise

In the surgical management of craniosynostosis, there is a high red blood cell (RBC) transfusion burden due to the small blood volume of the patients combined with significant blood loss that can occur with open surgery (OS). Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic which has been shown to decrease such a burden in particular surgeries. The aim of this study was to compare the operative outcomes of craniosynostosis OS which did and did not utilize TXA. Searches of 7 electronic databases from inception to February 2018 were conducted following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. There were 206 articles screened against selection criteria for inclusion. Relevant data were extracted and analyzed using meta-analysis of proportions. A total of 9 comparative studies were included for meta-analysis. Compared with the control cohort, craniosynostosis OS utilizing TXA demonstrated significantly lower intraoperative RBC transfusion volumes (mean difference, -8.25 mL/kg; P < 0.001), blood loss (mean difference, -10.96 mL/kg; P < 0.001) and postoperative RBC transfusion incidence (odds ratio, OR, 0.12; P = 0.005). Fresh frozen plasma and crystalloid transfusion, operation time, length of stay, and complications were not significantly different with TXA use. Based on the comparative evidence currently available, TXA significantly decreased RBC transfusion burden during craniosynostosis OS without operative compromise. There is significant heterogeneity in reported TXA regimes in the literature. Future studies that are larger, randomized, and account for these factors will further enhance the authors' understanding.

Antifibrinolytic Agents in Plastic Surgery: Current Practices and Future Directions

BACKGROUND

Prevention of blood loss is a chief consideration in plastic and reconstructive surgery. The antifibrinolytic drugs tranexamic acid and ε-aminocaproic acid have emerged as promising agents to reduce both perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements. However, published reports in the plastic surgery literature are lacking. The authors sought to summarize the current knowledge of the use of antifibrinolytics in plastic surgery by reviewing the existing literature for clinical outcomes and recommendations.

METHODS

A systematic review of the PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases was conducted for publications examining the use of antifibrinolytics in plastic surgery. Studies were abstracted for procedure type, antifibrinolytic dose, time and mode of administration, blood loss, transfusion requirements, and complications.

RESULTS

Thirty-three studies were deemed eligible for inclusion, comprising a total of 1823 patients undergoing plastic surgical procedures with tranexamic acid (n = 1328) and/or ε-aminocaproic acid (n = 495).

CONCLUSIONS

Tranexamic acid and ε-aminocaproic acid are widely used to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements in craniofacial and orthognathic surgery, without an increased risk of adverse events. Intravenous administration is most commonly used, although topical formulations show similar efficacy with a reduced systemic distribution. Tranexamic acid has also emerged as a promising agent in aesthetic surgery and burn care, due to its favorable safety profile and role in reducing blood loss, achieving an improved surgical field, and reducing edema and ecchymosis. Further investigation of these agents in the fields of burn care, aesthetic surgery, and microsurgery is warranted to standardize protocols for clinical use.

Care Standardization Reduces Blood Donor Exposures and Transfusion in Complex Cranial Vault Reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Complex cranial vault reconstruction (CCVR) often requires a large-volume transfusion of blood products. We implemented a series of improvement interventions to reduce blood donor exposures (BDE) and transfusion requirements in CCVR.

METHODS

We implemented interventions over 4 epochs: (E1) reconstituted blood (1:1 ratio of donor-matched red blood cells and fresh-frozen plasma) for intraoperative transfusions, (E2) reconstituted blood plus postoperative transfusion guidelines, (E3) reconstituted blood plus intraoperative antifibrinolytics and postoperative guidelines, and (E4) fresh whole blood for intraoperative transfusion, antifibrinolytics, and postoperative guidelines. Primary outcomes, BDE, and total volume of blood products transfused are presented by using statistical process control charts, with statistical comparisons between each epoch and baseline data.

RESULTS

We included 347 patients <72 months old who underwent CCVR between 2008 and 2016 (E1: n = 50; E2: n = 41; E3: n = 87; and E4: n = 169). They were compared with a baseline sample group of 138 patients who were managed between 2001 and 2006. Compared with our baseline group, patients in each epoch had a significant reduction in BDE (P = .02-<.0001). Conversely, compared with the baseline group, we observed an increase the volume of blood products transfused in E1 (P = .004), no difference in E2 (P = .6) or E3 (P = .46), and a reduction in the volume of blood products transfused in E4 (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation of sequential clinical improvement strategies resulted in a sustained reduction in BDE whereas only the use of whole blood resulted in a significant reduction in the total volume of blood products transfused in children undergoing CCVR.

Perioperative outcomes and management in midface advancement surgery: a multicenter observational descriptive study from the Pediatric Craniofacial Collaborative Group

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The evolution of Le Fort III and Monobloc procedures with utilization of distraction devices has resulted in shortened surgical times, greater facial advancements, and decreased transfusion requirements. The aim of this observational study was to utilize data from the multicenter Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Perioperative Registry to present and compare patient characteristics and outcomes in children undergoing midface advancement with distraction osteogenesis.

METHODS

We queried the Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Perioperative Registry for children undergoing midface advancement involving distractor application from June 2012 to September 2016. Data extracted included demographics, perioperative management, complications, fluid and transfusion volumes, and length of stay. The extracted patient characteristics and perioperative variables were summarized and compared.

RESULTS

The query yielded 72 cases from 11 institutions: 49 children undergoing Le Fort III and 23 undergoing Monobloc procedures. Monobloc patients were younger, weighed less, and more likely to have tracheostomies along with elevated intracranial pressure. Greater transfusion was observed in the Monobloc group for nearly all of the transfusion outcomes evaluated. Median ICU and hospital length of stay were 2 and 3 days longer, respectively, in the Monobloc group. Perioperative complications were not uncommon, occurring in 18% of patients in the Le Fort III group and 30% in the Monobloc group.

CONCLUSION

Monobloc procedures were associated with greater transfusion and longer ICU and hospital length of stay. Perioperative complications were more prevalent in the Monobloc group.

Perioperative bleeding management in pediatric patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Managing the bleeding pediatric patient perioperatively can be extremely challenging. The primary goals include avoiding hypotension, maintaining adequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation, and maintaining hemostasis. Traditional bleeding management has consisted of transfusion of autologous blood products, however, there is strong evidence that transfusion-related side-effects are associated with increased morbidity and mortality in children. Especially concerning is the increased reported incidence of noninfectious adverse events such as transfusion-related acute lung injury, transfusion-related circulatory overload and transfusion-related immunomodulation. The current approach in perioperative bleeding management of the pediatric patient should focus on the diagnosis and treatment of anemia and coagulopathy with the transfusion of blood products only when clinically indicated and guided by goal-directed strategies.

RECENT FINDINGS

Current guidelines recommend that a comprehensive multimodal patient blood management strategy is critical in optimizing patient care, avoiding unnecessary transfusion of blood and blood product and limiting transfusion-related side-effects.

SUMMARY

This article will highlight current guidelines in perioperative bleeding management for our most vulnerable pediatric patients with emphasis on individualized targeted intervention using point-of-care testing and specific coagulation products.

Blood Conservation Using Tranexamic Acid Is Not Superior to Epsilon-Aminocaproic Acid After Total Knee Arthroplasty

BACKGROUND

Epsilon-aminocaproic acid (EACA) and tranexamic acid (TXA) are synthetic amino acid derivatives that interfere with fibrinolysis, promoting hemostasis by pharmacological means. Although both drugs have been shown to decrease blood loss with a minimal risk of thromboembolic adverse events following cardiac and vascular surgery, we are aware of only 1 published trial that directly compared the antifibrinolytic effects of EACA with those of TXA after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The primary aim of this prospective, randomized, controlled trial was to determine whether TXA provides superior blood conservation following TKA compared with that provided by EACA.

METHODS

A total of 194 patients scheduled to undergo a primary unilateral TKA in the same community-based hospital were prospectively randomized to receive intravenous EACA (n = 96) or TXA (n = 98). Both the patients and the operating surgeons were blinded to the treatment assignments. Primary outcome measures included transfusions, estimated blood loss, and the drop in the hemoglobin (Hgb) level. Secondary outcomes measures included the change in the serum creatinine level, postoperative complications, and length of hospital stay.

RESULTS

Although the patients who received TXA averaged less estimated blood loss than the patients who received EACA (t185 = 2.18, p = 0.031; mean difference = 144.2 mL, 95% confidence interval = 13.62 to 274.78 mL), no transfusions were required in either group. We observed no statistically significant or clinically relevant between-group differences in the change in Hgb or serum creatinine level, postoperative complications, or length of hospital stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the estimated blood loss was significantly greater in the EACA group, no transfusions were required and no significant between-group differences were observed for any other outcomes measured. We concluded that EACA may be an acceptable alternative to TXA for blood conservation following TKA, although replication of our results in noninferiority trials is necessary.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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

Safety of antifibrinolytics in cranial vault reconstructive surgery: a report from the pediatric craniofacial collaborative group

BACKGROUND

Antifibrinolytic therapy significantly decreases blood loss and transfusion in pediatric cranial vault reconstructive surgery; however, concern regarding the side effects profile limits clinical use.

AIMS

The aim was to utilize the Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Perioperative Registry database to identify the safety profile of antifibrinolytic therapy for cranial vault reconstructive surgery by reporting the incidence of adverse events as they relate to exposure to tranexamic acid and aminocaproic acid compared to no exposure to antifibrinolytics.

METHODS

The database was queried for cases of open cranial vault reconstructive surgery. Less invasive procedures such as neuro-endoscopic and spring-mediated cranioplasties were excluded. The outcomes evaluated included any perioperative neurological adverse event including seizures or seizure-like movements and thromboembolic events.

RESULTS

Thirty-one institutions reported a total of 1638 cases from 2010 to 2015. Total antifibrinolytic administration accounted for 59.5% (tranexamic acid, 36.1% and aminocaproic acid, 23.4%), with 40.5% not receiving any antifibrinolytic. The overall incidence of postoperative seizures or seizure-like movements was 0.6%. No significant difference was detected in the incidence of postoperative seizures between patients receiving tranexamic acid and those receiving aminocaproic acid [the odds ratio for seizures being 0.34 (95% confidence interval: 0.07-1.85) controlling for American Society of Anesthesia (ASA) physical class] nor in patients receiving antifibrinolytics compared to those not administered antifibrinolytics (the odds ratio for seizures being 1.02 (confidence interval 0.29-3.63) controlling for ASA physical class). One complicated patient in the antifibrinolytic group with a femoral venous catheter had a postoperative deep venous thrombosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first report of an incidence of postoperative seizures of 0.6% in pediatric cranial vault reconstructive surgery. There was no significant difference in postoperative seizures or seizure-like events in those patients who received the tranexamic acid or aminocaproic acid vs those that did not. This report provides evidence of the safety profile of antifibrinolytic in children having noncardiac major surgery. Caution should prevail however in using antifibrinolytic in high-risk patients. Antifibrinolytic dosage regimes should be based on pharmacokinetic data avoiding high doses.

Perioperative Outcomes and Management in Pediatric Complex Cranial Vault Reconstruction

Background

The Pediatric Craniofacial Collaborative Group established the Pediatric Craniofacial Surgery Perioperative Registry to elucidate practices and outcomes in children with craniosynostosis undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction and inform quality improvement efforts. The aim of this study is to determine perioperative management, outcomes, and complications in children undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction across North America and to delineate salient features of current practices.

Methods

Thirty-one institutions contributed data from June 2012 to September 2015. Data extracted included demographics, perioperative management, length of stay, laboratory results, and blood management techniques employed. Complications and outlier events were described. Outcomes analyzed included total blood donor exposures, intraoperative and perioperative transfusion volumes, and length of stay outcomes.

Results

One thousand two hundred twenty-three cases were analyzed: 935 children aged less than or equal to 24 months and 288 children aged more than 24 months. Ninety-five percent of children aged less than or equal to 24 months and 79% of children aged more than 24 months received at least one transfusion. There were no deaths. Notable complications included cardiac arrest, postoperative seizures, unplanned postoperative mechanical ventilation, large-volume transfusion, and unplanned second surgeries. Utilization of blood conservation techniques was highly variable.

Conclusions

The authors present a comprehensive description of perioperative management, outcomes, and complications from a large group of North American children undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction. Transfusion remains the rule for the vast majority of patients. The occurrence of numerous significant complications together with large variability in perioperative management and outcomes suggest targets for improvement.

Aminocaproic acid administration is associated with reduced perioperative blood loss and transfusion in pediatric craniofacial surgery

BACKGROUND

Severe blood loss is a common complication of craniofacial reconstruction surgery. The antifibrinolytic ε-aminocaproic acid (EACA) reduces transfusion requirements in children undergoing cardiac surgery and in older children undergoing spine surgery. Tranexamic acid (TXA), another antifibrinolytic with a similar mechanism of action, has been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements in children undergoing craniofacial surgery. However, TXA has been associated with an increase in post-operative seizures and is more expensive than EACA. There is currently little published data evaluating the efficacy of EACA in children undergoing craniofacial surgery.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study of prospectively collected data from our craniofacial perioperative registries for children under 6 years of age who underwent anterior or posterior cranial vault reconstruction. We compared calculated blood loss, blood donor exposures, and post-operative drain output between subjects who received EACA and those who did not.

RESULTS

The registry queries returned data from 152 subjects. Eighty-six did not receive EACA and 66 received EACA. The EACA group had significantly lower calculated blood loss (82 ± 43 vs. 106 ± 63 ml/kg, P = 0.01), fewer intraoperative blood donor exposures (median 2, interquartile range 1-2 vs. median 2, interquartile range 1-3; P = 0.02) and lower surgical drain output in the first post-operative 24 h (28 ml/kg vs. 37 ml/kg, P = 0.001) than the non-EACA group.

CONCLUSION

In this analysis of prospectively captured observational data, EACA administration was associated with less calculated blood loss, intraoperative blood donor exposures, and post-operative surgical drain output.

Minimizing blood transfusions in the surgical correction of craniosynostosis: a 10-year single-center experience

INTRODUCTION

Our center previously reported low transfusion rates for craniosynostosis surgery by two experienced neurosurgeons using standard intraoperative techniques and acceptance of low hemoglobin levels. This study evaluated whether low rates were maintained over the last 10 years and if a less experienced neurosurgeon, trained in and practicing in the same environment, could achieve similar outcomes.

METHODS

All craniosynostosis operations performed in children between 2004 and 2015 were reviewed retrospectively. Transfusion rates were calculated. Analyses examined the relationship of transfusion to craniosynostosis type, surgical procedure, redo operation, surgeon, and perioperative hemoglobin levels.

RESULTS

Two hundred eighteen patients were included: 71 open sagittal, 28 endoscopic-assisted sagittal, 32 unicoronal, 14 bicoronal, 42 metopic, and 31 multisuture. Median age at operation was 9.1 months. Overall transfusion rate was 24 %: 17 % open sagittal, 7 % endoscopic-assisted sagittal, 6 % unicoronal, 21 % bicoronal, 45 % metopic, and 45 % multisuture. The timing of transfusions were 75, 21, and 4 % for intraoperative, postoperative, and both, respectively. Patients not receiving transfusion had a mean lowest hemoglobin of 87 g/l (range 61-111) intraoperatively and 83 g/l (range 58-115) postoperatively. Mean lowest hemoglobin values were significantly lower in those necessitating intraoperative (75 g/l, range 54-102) or postoperative (59 g/l, range 51-71) transfusions. There was no significant difference in transfusion rate between less and more experienced surgeons. There were no cardiovascular complications or mortalities.

CONCLUSION

In craniosynostosis surgery, reproducible, long-term low blood transfusion rates were able to be maintained at a single center by careful intraoperative technique and acceptance of low intraoperative and postoperative hemoglobin levels in hemodynamically stable patients. Furthermore, low rates were also achieved by an inexperienced neurosurgeon in the group. This suggests that these results may be achievable by other neurosurgeons, who follow a similar protocol.

Use of blood-sparing surgical techniques and transfusion algorithms: association with decreased blood administration in children undergoing primary open craniosynostosis repair

OBJECT Craniofacial reconstruction surgery (CFR) is often associated with significant blood loss, coagulopathy, and perioperative blood transfusion. Due to transfusion risks, many different approaches have been used to decrease allogeneic blood transfusion for these patients during the perioperative period. Protocols have decreased blood administration during the perioperative period for many types of surgeries. The object of this study was to determine if a protocol involving blood-sparing surgical techniques and a transfusion algorithm decreased intraoperative blood transfusion and blood loss. METHODS A protocol using transfusion algorithms and implementation of blood-sparing surgical techniques for CFR was implemented at Vanderbilt University on January 1, 2013. Following Institutional Review Board approval, blood loss and transfusion data were gathered retrospectively on all children undergoing primary open CFR, using the protocol, for the calendar year 2013. This postprotocol cohort was compared with a preprotocol cohort, which consisted of all children undergoing primary open CFR during the previous calendar year, 2012. RESULTS There were 41 patients in the preprotocol and 39 in the postprotocol cohort. There was no statistical difference between the demographics of the 2 groups. When compared with the preprotocol cohort, intraoperative packed red blood cell transfusion volume decreased from 36.9 ± 21.2 ml/kg to 19.2 ± 10.9 ml/kg (p = 0.0001), whereas fresh-frozen plasma transfusion decreased from 26.8 ± 25.4 ml/kg to 1.5 ± 5.7 ml/kg (p < 0.0001) following implementation of the protocol. Furthermore, estimated blood loss decreased from 64.2 ± 32.4 ml/kg to 52.3 ± 33.3 ml/kg (p = 0.015). Use of fresh-frozen plasma in the postoperative period also decreased when compared with the period before implementation of the protocol. There was no significant difference in morbidity and mortality between the 2 groups. CONCLUSIONS The results of this study suggested that using a multidisciplinary protocol consisting of transfusion algorithms and implementation of blood-sparing surgical techniques during major CFR in pediatric patients is associated with reduced intraoperative administration of blood product, without shifting the transfusion burden to the postoperative period.

Bleeding management for pediatric craniotomies and craniofacial surgery

Pediatric patients when undergoing craniotomies and craniofacial surgery may potentially have significant blood loss. The amount and extent will be dictated by the nature of the surgical procedure, the proximity to major blood vessels, and the age, and weight of the patient. The goals should be to maintain hemodynamic stability and oxygen carrying capacity and to prevent and treat hyperfibrinolysis and dilutional coagulopathy. Over transfusion and transfusion-related side effects should be minimized. This article will highlight the pertinent considerations for managing massive blood loss in pediatric patients undergoing craniotomies and craniofacial surgery. North American and European guidelines for intraoperative administration of fluid and blood products will be discussed.