Use of Topical Tranexamic Acid or Aminocaproic Acid to Prevent Bleeding After Major Surgical Procedures

Total Knee Replacement Among Elderly: The Role of Tranexamic Acid

Background Tranexamic acid (TXA) administration in total knee replacement (TKR) surgery has been shown to reduce blood loss and transfusion requirements. However, its efficacy and safety in elderly patients undergoing arthroplasty remain under investigation. This study aimed to assess the impact of TXA on blood loss and post-operative outcomes in TKR patients among a local elderly population. Methodology A prospective descriptive-analytical hospital-based randomized study was conducted, involving 79 TKR patients who received TXA. Demographic data, comorbidities, pre- and post-operative hemoglobin levels, length of hospital stay, transfusion requirements, and post-operative complications were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY), including descriptive analysis and comparative tests. Results The mean drop in hemoglobin levels post-operatively was -1.55 g/dL (SD = 0.94). The majority of patients (78, 98.7%) did not require packed red blood cell transfusions post-operatively, and complications were minimal (1, 1.3%). The length of hospital stay was relatively short (mean = 4.84 days). Comparison with existing literature revealed TXA's effectiveness in reducing blood loss compared to studies without TXA administration. Conclusion TXA administration in TKR surgery effectively reduced blood loss, transfusion requirements, and post-operative complications, supporting its use as a standard adjunctive therapy. These findings emphasize the importance of TXA in optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing surgical complications in TKR patients. Limitations of the study include the relatively small sample size and the exclusion of patients with certain comorbidities, which may limit the generalizability of the findings. Further research is warranted to validate these findings in larger patient cohorts and explore long-term effects.

Life threatening hemorrhage associated with a dentigerous cyst in a dog: Case report

Dentigerous cysts are the most common type of odontogenic cysts and arise from an unerupted tooth. These cysts have stereotypical radiographic and clinical findings. They can be extremely invasive but rarely present as a life-threatening emergency. This case report describes the stabilization and treatment of a 6-year-old mixed breed dog with a dentigerous cyst with concurrent life-threatening hemorrhage. The dog presented with severe oral hemorrhage from the mandibular artery and required multiple blood transfusions. It was ultimately diagnosed with a dentigerous cyst. Complications from dental issues and potential life-threatening complications, such as this case, can be prevented by routine annual oral examination and full mouth dental radiographs if an unerupted tooth is suspected.

The Effects of Tranexamic Acid in Breast Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is used in trauma and surgical settings. Its role in reducing postoperative blood loss in breast surgery remains unclear. The primary objective of this study was to determine the effect of TXA on postoperative blood loss in breast surgery.

METHODS

Searches of the PubMed, Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were performed from inception to April 3, 2020. Inclusion criteria were any retrospective reviews, prospective cohort studies, and randomized controlled trials that administered TXA (topical or intravenously) in the context of breast surgery. Quality of studies were evaluated using the risk of bias in randomized trials tool and the risk of bias in nonrandomized studies of interventions tool. Data were pooled, and a meta-analysis was performed.

RESULTS

In total, seven studies were included, representing 1226 patients (TXA, 632 patients; control, 622 patients). TXA was administered as follows: topically (20 mL of 25 mg/mL TXA intraoperatively; n =258 patients), intravenously (1 to 3 g perioperatively; n = 743 patients), or both (1 to 3 g daily up to 5 days postoperatively; n = 253 patients). TXA administration reduced hematoma formation in breast surgery (risk ratio, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.32 to 0.73), with no effect on drain output (mean difference, -84.12 mL; 95% CI, -206.53 to 38.29 mL), seroma formation (risk ratio, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.60 to 1.40), or infection rates (risk ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 0.46 to 2.21). No adverse effects were reported.

CONCLUSION

The use of TXA in breast surgery is a safe and effective modality with low-level evidence that it reduces hematoma rates without affecting seroma rates, postoperative drain output, or infection rates.

Title: Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Complications and Prophylaxis Strategies

Cancer is currently a significant therapeutic challenge and is frequently connected with numerous adverse effects. Despite many improvements in chemotherapy, oral complications are common, leading to poor quality of life and chemotherapeutic dose reduction, which impair survival. This review summarizes the most common dental complications in patients receiving chemotherapy. We mainly focus on oral mucositis as it is a major cause of dose-limiting toxicity. Furthermore, oral candidiasis, viral infections, and xerostomia will be discussed. Conclusions: preventing complications is significantly more important than treating them. All patients beginning systemic anticancer treatment should undergo a thorough oral examination and get appropriate prophylaxis.

Use of Tranexamic Acid in Liposculpture: A Double-Blind, Multicenter, Randomized Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Intraoperative hemostasis should be performed with great caution since bleeding is a huge enemy of patient safety during surgery. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a lysine synthetic derivate that inhibits fibrinolysis and diminishes the bleeding by blocking the 5 lysine-binding sites for plasminogen.

PURPOSE

We are comparing the efficacy of tranexamic acid vs. placebo as a hemostatic agent in liposculpture procedures.

METHODS DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

We conducted a multicenter, double-blinded, randomized, controlled clinical trial in patients who were scheduled for liposculpture in 3 plastic surgery centers (Colombia and Mexico) between January 2019 and February of 2020. Interventions: 141 patients were randomly assigned into three groups: Intravenous (1 gr of TXA), subcutaneous (1 gr of TXA) and placebo (Normal Saline). 47 patients were assigned to each group. 30 patients were male and 111 were female. Main outcome: Evaluate the amount of postoperative bleeding between groups. The primary outcome was measured by the hemoglobin (Hb) point loss at day 1 (Preoperative Hb minus Hb at day 1 postop) and the Hb (mg/dl) point loss at day 5 (Preoperative Hb minus Hb at day 5 postop).

RESULTS

We found the Intravenous intervention group to have a greater hemoglobin level than the other two groups on both the first postoperative day (P=0.0001) and the fifth postoperative day (P=0.001). There were no statistical differences in Hb values between the placebo and the subcutaneous intervention groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous Tranexamic acid is a good therapeutic choice to implement on liposculpture procedures to decrease postoperative bleeding.

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

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

Tranexamic acid given into wound reduces postoperative drainage, blood loss, and hospital stay in spinal surgeries: a meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Although intravenous tranexamic acid administration (ivTXA) has prevailed in clinical antifibrinolytic treatment, whether it increases thromboembolic risks has remained controversial. As a potent alternative to ivTXA, topical use of TXA (tTXA) has been successfully applied to attenuate blood loss in various surgical fields while minimizing systemic exposure to TXA. This meta-analysis was conducted to gather scientific evidence for tTXA efficacy on reducing postoperative drainage, blood loss, and the length of hospital stay in spine surgeries.

OBJECTIVES

To examine whether topical use of TXA (tTXA) reduces postoperative drainage output and duration, hidden blood loss, hemoglobin level drop, hospital stay, and adverse event rate, we reviewed both randomized and non-randomized controlled trials that assessed the aforementioned efficacies of tTXA compared with placebo in patients undergoing cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spinal surgeries.

METHODS

An exhaustive literature search was conducted in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases from January 2000 through March 2020. Measurable outcomes were pooled using Review Manager (RevMan) version 5.0 in a meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Significantly reduced postoperative drainage output (weighted mean difference [WMD]= - 160.62 ml, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) [- 203.41, - 117.83]; p < .00001) and duration (WMD= - 0.75 days, 95% CI [- 1.09, - 0.40]; p < .0001), perioperative hidden blood loss (WMD= - 91.18ml, 95% CI [- 121.42, - 60.94]; p < .00001), and length of hospital stay (WMD= - 1.32 days, 95% CI [- 1.90, - 0.74]; p < .00001) were observed in tTXA group. Pooled effect for Hb level drop with tTXA vs placebo crossed the equivalent line by a mere 0.05 g/dL, with the predominant distribution of 95% confidence interval (CI) favoring tTXA use.

CONCLUSIONS

With the most comprehensive literature inclusion up to the present, this meta-analysis suggests that tTXA use in spinal surgeries significantly reduces postoperative drainage, hidden blood loss, and hospital stay duration. The pooled effect also suggests that tTXA appears more effective than placebo in preserving postoperative Hb level, which needs further validation by future studies.

Topical tranexemic acid reduces intra-operative blood loss and transfusion requirements in spinal deformity correction in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the use of topical tranexamic acid (tTXA) in spinal deformity correction in AIS patients METHODS: Sixty consecutive operative AIS patients were reviewed from a single institution and divided into two groups with similar demographics. Standardized peri-operative blood salvage techniques were utilized in all 60 patients. In the latter 30 patients, tTXA soaked sponges (1 g mixed in 500 ml Normal Saline) was utilised for wound packing during the entire surgical procedure compared to dry sponges as used in the former 30 patients. Both the groups were compared for the magnitude of deformity corrected, EBL per level fused, total EBL, blood transfused, drain output and peri-operative events.

RESULTS

Sixty AIS patients (mean age 14.4 yrs, 43 females, mean BMI 21.5, mean levels 10.7) were included. Both groups achieved similar change in Coronal Cobb correction. The EBVL (Estimated blood volume loss) % lost in the topical TXA group was 38% less than the control group (11.2 vs. 18.3%, p = 0.006). Similarly, the EBL/level was significantly lower in the topical TXA group (41 ± 30 ml vs. 57 ± 26 ml, p = 0.03). Three of 30 patients in the control group required at least 1 unit of blood transfusion, whereas only 1 patient in the topical TXA group required transfusion (10 vs. 3.3%, p = 0.001). No differences were noted in post-operative drain output, change in hemoglobin levels, and peri-operative complication rates.

CONCLUSION

When used as an adjunct to the conventional blood salvage techniques in spinal deformity correction procedures, the use of tTXA resulted in reduced operative blood loss, and blood transfusion requirements.

Should We Use Intra-articular Tranexamic Acid Before or After Capsular Closure During Total Knee Replacement? A Study of 100 Knees

BACKGROUND

Intraarticular (IA) administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) is a proven way of reducing blood loss in total knee replacement (TKR). However, different methods of administration have been described in literature such as placement of an intra-articular swab soaked in TXA before capsular closure or injecting TXA intraarticularly after capsular closure. We decided to compare these two methods.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One hundred consecutive patients planned for unilateral TKR between December 2018 and March 2019 were selected for the study and divided into 2 groups of 50 patients each. All patients received IV and oral TXA identically-15 mg/kg TXA IV preoperatively, 10 mg/kg IV TXA at 3 and 6 h postoperatively, and 1 g oral TXA for the next 2 days. Group A was given IA TXA via swab soaked with 1 g TXA in 100 ml normal saline (NS) before closure of arthtrotomy, while Group B was given 1 g of IA TXA via injection in the knee after capsular closure. Preoperative haemoglobin (Hb) and postoperative day 4 Hb values were measured. Blood loss was calculated and compared in both groups using Mann Whitney test.

RESULT

The mean blood loss was 652.23 ± 64.36 ml in Group A and 542.68 ± 266.23 ml in Group B. The difference in blood loss between both groups was found to be clinically significant with a p-value of 0.03236 (significant, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Injecting TXA intraarticularly after capsular closure is more effective than using an intra-articular swab containing TXA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III Retrospective Comparative study.

Efficacy of Topical Tranexamic Acid (Cyclokapron) in "Wet" Field Infiltration with Dilute Local Anaesthetic Solutions in Plastic Surgery

BACKGROUND

Surgical bleeding may lead to the need for blood transfusion and minimizing blood loss has been a basic principle followed by surgeons for generations. Antifibrinolytic agents are widely used to reduce perioperative haemorrhage. The present study sought to assess the efficacy of directly infiltrated tranexamic acid in ameliorating bruising in participants undergoing cosmetic plastic surgery (liposuction).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study employed a blinded, prospective, randomized, case control design. Thirty-three patients were studied. Tranexamic acid free infiltration tumescent solution (saline, bupivacaine lignocaine and adrenalin) was infiltrated to one flank of patients undergoing liposuction of flanks. The other flank was infiltrated with the same tumescent solution (saline, bupivacaine lignocaine and adrenalin) mixed with tranexamic acid (0.1%). Bruises were photographed one and seven days after surgery and measured for size. The surface area of the bruises was calculated using ImageJ software. We compared the bruised surface are between the tranexamic acid infiltrated flank and non-tranexamic acid infiltrated flank in the same patient. The model employed involved measuring the bruises on each flank of the same patient, with surgery by a single surgeon using the same infiltration and surgical techniques for both sides. The only variable was the difference in tranexamic acid concentration between study and control flanks.

RESULTS

We found that use of tranexamic acid consistently resulted in a smaller bruise area on days one and seven after liposuction of flanks. Results were statistically significant.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study examining addition of tranexamic acid to a tumescent infiltration solution-to produce a predictable local concentration of tranexamic acid-in order to maximize surgical site effect and minimize systemic effect. The authors recommend incorporation of tranexamic acid as a routine component along with adrenaline and local anaesthetics in tumescent field infiltration solution 10-15 min before commencement of the cosmetic surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE II

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 the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Ophthalmic Drops with Nanoparticles Derived from a Natural Product for Treating Age-Related Macular Degeneration

There is a continuing, urgent need for an ophthalmic (eye) drop for the clinical therapy of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness. Here, we report the first formulation of an eye drop that is effective via autophagy for AMD treatment. This eye drop is based on a single natural product derivative (ACD), which is an amphiphilic molecule containing a 6-aminohexanoate group (H₂N(CH₂)₅COO-). We demonstrate that this eye drop reverses the abnormal angiogenesis induced in a primate model of AMD that has the pathological characteristics close to that of human AMD. The ACD molecule was self-assembled in an aqueous environment leading to nanoparticles (NPs) about 9.0 nm in diameter. These NPs were encapsulated in calcium alginate hydrogel. The resulting eye drop effectively slowed the release of ACD and displayed extended release periods in both simulated blood (pH 7.4) and inflammatory (pH 5.2) environments. We show that the eye drop penetrated both the corneal and blood-eye barriers and reached the fundus. With low cellular toxicity, the drop targeted S1,25D₃-membrane-associated rapid response steroid-binding protein (1,25D₃-MARRS) promoting autophagy in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, the drop inhibited cell migration and tubular formation. On the other hand, when protein 1,25D₃-MARRS was knocked down, the eye drop did not exhibit such inhibition functionalities. Our study indicates that the 6-aminohexanoate group on self-assembled NPs encapsulated in hydrogel leads to the positive in vivo outcomes. The present formulation offers a promising approach for clinical treatment of human AMD.

The influence of topical use of tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss on early operation for thoracolumbar burst fracture: a randomized double-blinded controlled study

Purpose

To investigate the safety and efficacy of topical use of tranexamic acid (TXA) on early operation for thoracolumbar burst fracture (TBF).

Methods

Patients with acute TBF requiring early decompression were prospectively collected. The enrolled patients were randomly assigned to TXA and control group, in which wound surface was soaked with TXA or the same volume of normal saline for 5 min after wound incision, respectively. The total blood loss (TBL), intraoperative blood loss (IBL), postoperative blood loss (PBL), hemoglobin (HGB) levels on preoperatively (pre-op) and postoperatively, and amount of allogenic blood transfusion were recorded. Furthermore, the general information was also compared between groups.

Results

There were 39 and 37 patients enrolled in TXA and control group for final analysis. The demographics data showed no significant difference between groups (P > 0.05), but operation time and IBL were significantly decreased in TXA group (P < 0.05). Further analysis showed that HGB level was significantly higher in the TXA group at POD1, while the TBL and PBL were significantly less than those in the control group (P < 0.05), but similar to HBL (P > 0.05). The postoperative ambulation time, removal time of drainage tube, length of hospital stay, and blood transfusion rate were also significantly less in TXA group (P < 0.05). At the final follow-up, no neurological deteriorations and no TXA-related complications were observed in both groups.

Conclusion

This RCT first demonstrated that topical TXA usage after wound incision could effectively reduce IBL without increasing risk of complications, beneficial to enhanced recovery after early operation for TBF.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00586-020-06626-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

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

INTRODUCTION

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

METHOD

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSIONS

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

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

Introduction

Method

Results

Conclusions

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.

Use of Topical Tranexamic Acid to Reduce Blood Loss in Single-Level Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion

Study Design

Nonrandomized, prospective, and case-controlled study.

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of topically applied tranexamic acid (TXA) during different phases of spine surgery.

Overview of Literature

Perioperative blood loss is the leading cause of postoperative anemia associated with prolonged stays in hospital and long recovery times. The direct and indirect costs involved pose a significant economic challenge in developing countries. There is no consensus for topical use of tranexamic acid in spine surgery.

Methods

Patients requiring a single-level TLIF were divided into two groups. In the TXA group (n=75), the wound surface was soaked with TXA (1 g in 100 mL saline solution) for 3 minutes after exposure, after decompression, and before wound closure, and in the control group (n=175) using only saline. Intraoperative blood loss drain volume was recorded on each of the first 2 days immediately after surgery. An estimated cost analysis was made on the basis of the length of hospital stay and the blood transfusion.

Results

IBL for the control group was 783.33±332.71 mL and for intervention group 410.57±189.72 mL (p<0.001). The operative time for control group was 3.24±0.38 hours and for intervention group 2.99±0.79 hours (p<0.695). Hemovac drainage on days 1 and 2 for control group was 167.10±53.83 mL and 99.33±37.5 mL, respectively, and for intervention group 107.03±44.37 mL and 53.38±21.99 mL, respectively (p<0.001). The length of stay was significantly shorter in the intervention group (4.8±1.1 days) compared to control group (7.0±2.3 days). The cost of treatment in the intervention group was US dollar (USD) 4,552.57±1,222.6 compared with that in the control group USD 6,529.9±1,505.04.

Conclusions

Topical TXA is a viable, cost-effective method of decreasing perioperative blood loss in major spine surgery with fewer overall complications than other methods. Further studies are required to find the ideal dosage and timing.

Restrictive allogeneic blood transfusion strategy in patients with extremity bone sarcomas

Allogeneic blood transfusions (ABTs) are common in patients with cancer. The present study investigated the safety of a restrictive ABT strategy in patients with extremity sarcomas.Patients who underwent operations for extremity bone sarcomas between May 2008 and November 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical outcomes based on hemoglobin concentrations, postoperative infections, and hospital stay were compared between 20 patients who received liberal ABT (control group) and 19 patients who received restrictive ABT (restrictive group). The rates of distant metastasis and death were compared between the groups.The mean number of ABTs was 3.6 ± 3.8 units in the control group and 0.33 ± 0.74 units in the restrictive group (P < .001). Only 3 of 19 patients received transfusions (2 red cell packs each). The hemoglobin levels tended to fall during the first 3 postoperative days but seemed to stabilize within the first postoperative week in both groups. Postoperative surgical site infections only occurred in the patients who received ABTs regardless of the group. The rates of distant metastasis and death were higher in the control group than in the restrictive group (25.0% vs 15.7% and 10.0% vs 0%, respectively), but the differences were not significant.A restrictive ABT strategy may be safely performed in patients with extremity bone sarcomas depending on the intraoperative status and specific characteristics of each patient.

Aprotinin versus tranexamic acid in children undergoing cardiac surgery: an observational study

OBJECTIVES

The upcoming release of aprotinin in paediatric cardiac surgery prompted a re-evaluation of its use in comparison to tranexamic acid (TXA) focusing on their effect on exposure to blood transfusions as well as severe postoperative morbidity or mortality.

METHODS

This retrospective study was conducted in a tertiary children hospital from 2002 to 2015. Patients receiving aprotinin (Aprotinin group: 2002-2007) were compared with those receiving TXA group (2008-2015) using propensity score analysis. Primary outcome measures were 'exposure to blood products' and 'severe postoperative morbidity or mortality'. High-risk subgroups that included neonates, complex (Risk Adjusted Classification for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 ≥ 3) and redo surgery were also analysed.

RESULTS

The study included 2157 patients, 1136 in the Aprotinin group and 1021 in the TXA group. Exposure to blood products was significantly higher in the Aprotinin group (78% vs 60%; P < 0.001) as well as in the complex and redo surgery subgroups. Incidence of mortality and/or severe morbidity was higher in the Aprotinin group (33% vs 28%; P = 0.007), as well as in the neonate group. However, cardiopulmonary bypass priming volume and intraoperative fluid balance were significantly decreased, and the use of modified ultrafiltration significantly increased in the TXA group.

CONCLUSIONS

In our population, children receiving aprotinin were more frequently transfused and were at a higher risk of developing severe postoperative morbidity or mortality than those receiving TXA. Subgroups at high risk of bleeding or inflammation did not seem to benefit from aprotinin. These differences might be explained by a safer profile of TXA, but also attributed to major changes in our patient blood management strategies over years.

Magnetically controlled protein nanocontainers as a drug depot for the hemostatic agent

PURPOSE

Currently, there is a number of successfully implemented local hemostatic agents for external bleedings in forms of wound dressings and other topical materials. However, little has been done in the field of intravenous hemostatic agents. Here, we propose a new procedure to fabricate biocompatible protein nanocontainers (NCs) for intravenous injection allowing magneto-controllable delivery and short-term release of the hemostatic agent ε-aminocaproic acid (EACA).

METHODS

The nanocontainers were synthesized by the desolvation method from bovine serum albumin (BSA) using methanol without any further crosslinking. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) was used both as a stabilization agent and for size control. Characterization of nanocontainers was performed by the transmission and scanning electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, X-ray diffraction, and FTIR spectroscopy. Cytotoxicity was estimated using MTT assay. The dopant release from nanocontainers was measured spectrophotometrically using rhodamine B as a model molecule. The specific hemostatic activity was assessed by analyzing clot lysis and formation curve (CloFAL). Moreover, the ability for magneto targeting was estimated using the original flow setup made of a syringe pump and silicon contours.

RESULTS

Fabricated nanocontainers had an average size of 186±24 nm and were constructed from building blocks-nanoparticles with average size ranged from 10 to 20 nm. PEG shell was also observed around nanocontainers with thickness 5-10 nm. NCs were proved to be completely non-cytotoxic even at concentrations up to 8 mg BSA/mL. Uptake capacity was near 36% while release within the first day was 17%. The analysis of the CloFAL curve showed the ability of NCs to inhibit the clot lysis successfully, and the ability of magneto targeting was confirmed under flow conditions.

CONCLUSION

The ability of synthesized NCs to deliver and release the therapeutic drug, as well as to accumulate at the desired site under the action of the magnetic field was proved experimentally.

Reducing Blood Loss During Abdominal Hysterectomy with Intravenous Versus Topical Tranexamic Acid: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effect of intravenous versus topical tranexamic acid in reducing intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in women with abdominal hysterectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial, carried out in a tertiary university hospital in Egypt, from November 2015 to October 2017. A total of 129 women undergoing abdominal hysterectomy for benign etiology were randomly assigned to three groups: Group I [43 patients received 110 ml normal saline IV just before skin in scion], Group II [43 patients received 1 g tranexamic acid in 100 ml saline IV just before skin in scion], and Group III [43 patients received 2 g topical tranexamic acid applied intra-abdominal after hysterectomy]. The primary outcome was intraoperative, postoperative, and all blood loss estimation.

RESULTS

Both Group II (IV tranexamic acid) and Group III (topical tranexamic acid application) showed great reduction in intraoperative and postoperative blood loss (blood in the intra-abdominal drain) compared with Group I (placebo group), (P = 0.0001, 0.0001, 0.0001, 0.0001), so the overall estimated blood loss in groups II and III showed highly reduction compared with Group I (P = 0.0001, 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Intravenous and topical tranexamic acid application is a safe and reliable method to help decrease blood loss during and after abdominal hysterectomy.

Immunohistochemical Grading of Epidural Fibrosis with CD105 Antibody

OBJECTIVE

Grading of epidural fibrosis (EF) is usually performed by histopathologic staining in experimental studies. Immunohistochemical methods for grading are not available in routine practice yet. In our study, the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA), a commonly used hemostatic agent in surgical interventions, was evaluated for use against the development of EF with classical histopathologic methods and immunohistochemistry using the CD105 antibody, a marker of angiogenesis.

METHODS

Sixteen rats were used. The rats were assigned to 2 groups, control and TXA. Laminectomy was performed on the control group. In the treatment group, laminectomy + topical TXA was applied. After sacrificing the rats in the sixth week, histopathologic and immunohistochemical examinations and grading of the EF tissue were performed.

RESULTS

Conventional histopathologic parameters of fibroblast count, intensity of fibrosis density, and inflammatory cell density, as well as immunohistochemical evaluation with CD105, showed that the grading of EF was comparable between groups I and II (P < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

The results of our study have demonstrated that CD105 is compatible with the conventional histopathologic grading methods and can be used as a marker to determine the grades of angiogenesis and fibrosis in experimental studies. The results of our study have also shown that TXA, administered locally for hemostasis, reduces the grade of EF in rats following laminectomy. TXA has been observed to cause no toxic effects on neural tissue as it is already commonly used in clinical practice.

The Role of Tranexamic Acid in Plastic Surgery: Review and Technical Considerations

Minimizing blood loss during surgery is critical, and many modalities have been used to decrease unwanted surgical bleeding. Among many methods, use of pharmacologic agents such as antifibrinolytic drugs has been shown to significantly reduce blood loss and the rates of postoperative blood transfusion in many articles. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic agent that has been widely used in other surgical specialties, especially in cardiac, orthopedic, and trauma surgery. Despite its known benefits, the use of tranexamic acid in plastic surgery is extremely limited, primarily because most plastic surgery procedures do not involve the extent of blood loss that can lead to anemia and the need for blood transfusion, as is common in major orthopedic and cardiac surgery procedures. Nevertheless, there are significant benefits to be gained from the use of antifibrinolytic drugs in the full range of plastic surgery. In this article, the authors introduce the benefits, dosages, and technical considerations of using tranexamic acid in plastic surgery procedures.

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 effect of tranexamic acid on hidden bleeding in older intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with PFNA

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of tranexamic acid (TXA) on hidden bleeding in older intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with intramedullary nails.

METHOD

Between January 2016 and January 2017, 100 cases of intertrochanteric fractures eligible for the study were treated with proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) in our hospital. All patients were divided into two groups of 50 patients each: the TXA group and a blank control group. In the TXA group, all patients received TXA at a dose of 10 mg/kg^-1 intravenously, 10 min preoperatively and 5 h postoperatively. The control group did not receive TXA. We recorded the volume of intraoperative blood loss and postoperative drainage, and the need for postoperative blood transfusion and transfusion volume for all patients. Blood routine examination was performed on the day of surgery and 2 days postoperatively. We calculated the total blood loss and hidden blood loss in the two groups separately according to the Gross equation. All patients underwent deep vein ultrasound of the lower limbs preoperatively and 1 week postoperatively to detect thrombosis.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, patients in the TXA group had lower: overt bleeding (50.59 ml; p = .012), total blood loss (181.58 ml; p = .005), hidden blood loss (130.64 ml; p = .037), volume of blood transfusion (110.0 ml; p = .019), and 20% lower transfusion rate compared with the control group. Patients receiving short-nail fixation had significantly lower hidden blood loss compared with patients receiving long-nail fixation (p < .05). However, we found no statistically significant difference in the incidence of deep vein thrombosis in the lower limbs between the two groups (p = .938).

CONCLUSION

TXA significantly reduced hidden blood loss in older intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with intramedullary nails without an increased risk of thrombosis in lower limb deep veins.

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

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

Efficacy and Safety of Topical Use of Tranexamic Acid in Reducing Blood Loss During Primary Lumbar Spinal Surgery: A Retrospective Case Control Study

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective case-control study.

OBJECTIVE

To compare postoperative blood loss, amount of allogeneic blood transfusion, removal time of drainage tube, length of hospital stay, and complications associated with tranexamic acid (TXA).

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

Spinal fusion surgery can be associated with significant blood loss. To the best of our knowledge, very few published studies exist reporting the effect of topical use of tranexamic acid (tTXA) on decreasing the blood loss in patients undergoing posterior lumbar spinal fusions.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective nonrandomized case-control study of 100 adults undergoing posterior lumbar spinal fusion surgery. In the tTXA group (n = 50), wound surface was soaked with TXA (1 g in 100 mL saline solution) for 5 minutes before wound closure. In the control group (n = 50), wound surface was soaked with the same volume of normal saline. The postoperative blood loss, removal time of drainage tube, amount of allogeneic blood transfusion, and length of hospital stay were compared between the two groups. And the complications of TXA were also collected.

RESULTS

In the tTXA group, the postoperative blood loss, removal time of drainage tube, postoperative length of hospital stay were significantly lower than those in the control group (155.2 ± 104.3 mL vs. 278.6 ± 124.1 mL, 2.0 ± 0.6 d vs. 2.4 ± 0.5 d, 4.7 ± 1.4 d vs. 5.6 ± 2.3 d, P < 0.05, respectively). There was no significant difference in blood transfusion between two groups. No significant changes were noticed in terms of coagulation function, and no complications associated with TXA were observed.

CONCLUSION

tTXA can significantly reduce postoperative blood loss, accelerate removal of drainage tube, shorten the duration of hospital stay, while not increasing the complication incidence in patients undergoing posterior lumbar spinal fusion surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

3.

Topical versus intravenous tranexamic acid in total knee arthroplasty

PURPOSE

The aim of this meta-analysis is to examine the efficacy and safety of intra-articular tranexamic acid (TXA) when compared to intravenous (IV) route.

METHODS

The literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). All randomized controlled trials evaluating the effectiveness of topical route and IV route of TXA administration were included.

RESULTS

Eight randomized clinical trials comprising of 857 patients were included in this analysis. We found no statistically significant difference in terms of total blood loss, drain output, transfusion requirement, thromboembolic complication, tourniquet time and surgical duration.

CONCLUSION

Topical TXA has a similar efficacy to IV-TXA in reducing total blood loss, drain output, transfusion rate and haemoglobin drop without any increase in thromboembolic complications.

Systemic and Topical Use of Tranexamic Acid in Spinal Surgery: A Systematic Review

Study Design Combination of narrative and systematic literature reviews. Objectives Massive perioperative blood loss in complex spinal surgery often requires blood transfusions and can negatively affect patient outcome. Systemic use of the antifibrinolytic agent tranexamic acid (TXA) has become widely used in the management of surgical bleeding. We review the clinical evidence for the use of intravenous TXA as a hemostatic agent in spinal surgery and discuss the emerging role for its complementary use as a topical agent to reduce perioperative blood loss from the surgical site. Through a systematic review of published and ongoing investigations on topical TXA for spinal surgery, we wish to make spine practitioners aware of this option and to suggest opportunities for further investigation in the field. Methods A narrative review of systemic TXA in spinal surgery and topical TXA in surgery was conducted. Furthermore, a systematic search (using PRISMA guidelines) of PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases as well as World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, ClinicalTrials.gov (National Institutes of Health), and International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number registries was conducted to identify both published literature and ongoing clinical trials on topical TXA in spinal surgery. Results Of 1,631 preliminary search results, 2 published studies were included in the systematic review. Out of 285 ongoing clinical trials matching the search criteria, a total of 4 relevant studies were included and reviewed. Conclusion Intravenous TXA is established as an efficacious hemostatic agent in spinal surgery. Use of topical TXA in surgery suggests similar hemostatic efficacy and potentially improved safety as compared with intravenous TXA. For spinal surgery, the literature on topical TXA is sparse but promising, warranting further clinical investigation and consideration as a clinical option in cases with significant anticipated surgical site blood loss.

Randomized clinical trial of topical tranexamic acid after reduction mammoplasty

BACKGROUND

The antifibrinolytic drug tranexamic acid is currently being rediscovered for both trauma and major surgery. Intravenous administration reduces the need for blood transfusion and blood loss by about one-third, but routine administration in surgery is not yet advocated owing to concerns regarding thromboembolic events. The aim of this study was to investigate whether topical application of tranexamic acid to a wound surface reduces postoperative bleeding.

METHODS

This was a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial on 30 consecutive women undergoing bilateral reduction mammoplasty. On one side the wound surfaces were moistened with 25 mg/ml tranexamic acid before closure, and placebo (saline) was used on the other side. Drain fluid production was measured for 24 h after surgery, and pain was measured after 3 and 24 h. Postoperative complications including infection, seroma, rebleeding and suture reactions were recorded.

RESULTS

Topical application of tranexamic acid to the wound surface after reduction mammoplasty reduced drain fluid production by 39 per cent (median 12·5 (range 0-44) versus 20·5 (0-100) ml; P = 0·038). Adverse effects were not observed. There were no significant differences in postoperative pain scores or complications.

CONCLUSION

Topical application of dilute tranexamic acid reduced bleeding in this model. The study adds to the evidence that this simple procedure may reduce wound bleeding after surgery.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT01964781 ( http://www.clinicaltrials.gov).

Thromboelastography: A Practice Summary for Nurse Practitioners Treating Hemorrhage

Nurse practitioners may manage patients with coagulopathic bleeding which can lead to life-threatening hemorrhage. Routine plasma-based tests such as prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time are inadequate in diagnosing hemorrhagic coagulopathy. Indiscriminate administration of fresh frozen plasma, platelets or cryoprecipitate for coagulopathic states can be extremely dangerous. The qualitative analysis that thromboelastography provides can facilitate the administration of the right blood product, at the right time, thereby permitting the application of goal-directed therapy for coagulopathic intervention application and patient survival.

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

BACKGROUND

Tranexamic acid (TXA) in orthopedics has recently been gaining favor due to its efficacy and ease of use, both in intravenous (IV) and intraarticular (IA) usage. However, because of safety concerns with IV administration, there has been a growing interest in the IA use of TXA to prevent bleeding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis that included 31 randomized, controlled trials in which the effect of systemic and topical TXA on total blood loss (TBL), rates of transfusion, and thromboembolic events was investigated.

RESULTS

Compared to the control, the IA administration of TXA led to the significant reduction of mean TBL (p < 0.001), rate of transfusion (p < 0.001), and reduction of rate of thromboembolic events (p = 0.29). Compared to the control group, the IV administration of TXA resulted in significant reduction of mean TBL (p < 0.001), rate of transfusion (p < 0.001), and rate of thromboembolic events (p = 0.66). Although no significant differences in efficacy and safety between the IA and IV administration of TXA were found, the IA method was safer than the IV method in that it reduced rate of transfusion and thromboembolic events.

CONCLUSION

This study showed that TXA leads to significant reductions in TBL and the rate of allogeneic transfusions. Generally, no significant difference was detected between IA and IV administration of TXA; however, more studies with focus on safety and efficacy are warranted.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the topical administration of tranexamic acid in total hip and knee replacement

Intravenous tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to be effective in reducing blood loss and the need for transfusion after joint replacement. Recently, there has been interest in applying it topically before the closure of surgical wounds. This has the advantages of ease of application, maximum concentration at the site of bleeding, minimising its systemic absorption and, consequently, concerns about possible side-effects. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis which included 14 randomised controlled trials (11 in knee replacement, two in hip replacement and one in both) which investigated the effect of topical TXA on blood loss and rates of transfusion. Topical TXA significantly reduced the rate of blood transfusion (total knee replacement: risk ratio (RR) 4.51; 95% confidence interval (CI): 3.02 to 6.72; p < 0.001 (nine trials, I(2) = 0%); total hip replacement: RR 2.56; 95% CI: 1.32 to 4.97, p = 0.004 (one trial)). The rate of thromboembolic events with topical TXA were similar to those found with a placebo. Indirect comparison of placebo-controlled trials of topical and intravenous TXA indicates that topical administration is superior to the intravenous route. In conclusion, topical TXA is an effective and safe method of reducing the need for blood transfusion after total knee and hip replacement. Further research is required to find its optimum dose for topical use.

Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid versus ϵ-aminocaproic acid in cardiovascular surgery

BACKGROUND

Blood conservation is a major concern in the management of surgical patients because of transfusion-related complications, limited supply, and health care costs. Tranexamic acid (TXA) and ϵ-aminocaproic acid (ϵACA) are lysine analogue antifibrinolytics used to reduce surgical bleeding and transfusions.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of TXA compared with ϵACA in the management of cardiovascular surgical bleeding at an academic medical center.

METHODS

This single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study included 120 patients undergoing cardiovascular surgery with or without cardiopulmonary bypass, who received at least 1 dose of perioperative TXA or ϵACA. The efficacy outcome-massive perioperative bleeding-was a composite end point of chest tube drainage >1500 mL in any 8-hour period after surgery, perioperative transfusion of 10 or more units of packed red blood cells, reoperation for bleeding, or death from hemorrhage within 30 days. The safety outcomes were incidence of thromboembolic events, postoperative renal dysfunction, seizure, and 30-day all-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The primary end point-massive perioperative bleeding-occurred in 10 patients (16.7%) in the TXA group compared with 5 patients (8.3%) in the ϵACA group (P = 0.17). There were no significant differences in the secondary end points of 30-day all-cause mortality, thromboembolic events, renal dysfunction, and seizure.

CONCLUSIONS

There were no differences in the efficacy and safety outcomes between TXA and ϵACA in the management of cardiovascular surgical bleeding at our institution. Considering the substantial cost difference and comparable efficacy and safety, ϵACA may have better value over TXA for reducing cardiovascular surgical bleeding.

Tranexamic Acid Reduces Blood Loss and Transfusion in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty without Tourniquet: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

Introduction :

Blood loss during and after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can lead to substantial morbidity and the need for blood transfusions. There are several methods to minimize blood loss and to decrease transfusion rates in patients undergoing TKA. Tranexamic acid is an antifibrinolytic agent with known efficacy for achieving these goals. Currently, many surgeons are performing TKA without the use of tourniquet. Consequently, the aim of the study is to evaluate whether tranexamic acid reduces blood loss during and after TKA without the adjunctive use of above-the-knee tourniquet.

Methods :

We performed a prospective randomized controlled trial (1:1 fashion) on the use of tranexamic acid versus placebo in 50 patients undergoing TKA (without tourniquet). The treatment group received two (preoperative and postoperative) 15 mg/kg doses. The primary endpoint was blood transfusion rate. We collected data about demographic and procedural characteristics, hemoglobin and hematocrit values, drain blood loss at 24 hours as well as adverse events.

Results :

There were no transfusions in the treatment group, whereas 32% of the control group required transfusion (p<0.01). The treatment group had higher hematocrit and hemoglobin levels at 24, 48 and 72 hours after surgery (all p<0.01) and lower drain loss at 24hours (363.4±141 vs 626±260ml, p=<0,001). There were no in-hospital or six-month thromboembolic complications.

Discussion :

A double-dose of tranexamic acid was safe and effective, reducing blood loss and preventing the need of blood transfusion in patients undergoing TKA without above-the-need tourniquet.

Anti-hemorrhagic agents in oral and dental practice: an update

Many oral surgeons in their daily practice have the problem of controlling postoperative bleeding. In surgical, oral and maxillofacial practice, standard anti-hemorrhagic protocols, especially in high risk patients, are obviously required and need to be continuously updated. The purpose of this review is to give a rational insight into the management of bleeding in oral and dental practice through modern drugs and medical devices such as lysine analogues and serine protease inhibitors, desmopressin, fibrin sealants, cyanoacrylates, gelatins, collagen and foams, protein concentrates, recombinant factors, complementary and alternative medicine and other compounds.

Efficacy of low-dose intra-articular tranexamic acid in total knee replacement; a prospective triple-blinded randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Recently, a number of studies using intra-articular application of tranexamic acid (IA-TXA), with different dosage and techniques, successfully reduced postoperative blood loss in total knee replacement (TKR). However, best of our knowledge, the very low dose of IA-TXA with drain clamping technique in conventional TKR has not been yet studied. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and dose-response effect of two low-dose IA-TXA regimens in conventional TKR on blood loss and blood transfusion reduction.

METHODS

Between 2010 and 2011, a triple-blinded randomized controlled study was conducted in 135 patients undergoing conventional TKR. The patients were allocated into three groups according to intra-articular solution received: Control group (physiologic saline), TXA-250 group (TXA 250 mg), and TXA-500 group (TXA 500 mg). The solution was injected after wound closure followed by drain clamping for 2 hours. Blood loss and transfusion were recorded. Duplex ultrasound was performed. Functional outcome and complication were followed for one year.

RESULTS

There were forty-five patients per groups. The mean total hemoglobin loss was 2.9 g/dL in control group compared with 2.2 g/dL in both TXA groups (p > 0.001). Ten patients (22%, control), six patients (13%, TXA-250) and none (TXA-500) required transfusion (p = 0.005). Thromboembolic events were detected in 7 patients (4 controls, 1 TXA-250, and 2 TXA-500). Functional outcome was non-significant difference between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Combined low-dose IA-TXA, as 500 mg, with 2-hour clamp drain is effective for reducing postoperative blood loss and transfusion in conventional TKR without significant difference in postoperative knee function or complication.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01850394.

Efficacy and safety of using antifibrinolytic agents in spine surgery: a meta-analysis

PURPOSE

Spine surgery, particularly reconstructive surgery, can be associated with significant blood loss, and blood transfusion. Antifibrinolytic agents are used routinely to reduce bleeding in cardiac, orthopaedic, and hepatic surgery. The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of using antifibrinolytic agents in reducing blood loss and blood transfusions in spine surgery.

METHODS

A systematic search of all related studies written in English published by October 2012 was conducted using the MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library databases. Randomized controlled trials that reported the drug dosage, total blood loss, blood transfusion and incidence of deep vein thrombosis as the primary outcome were included.

RESULTS

Nine studies involving 482 patients were identified. Patients receiving antifibrinolytic agents had reduced blood loss (WMD =-288.8, 95 % CI - 46.49, - 110.19; P = 0.002), reduced blood transfusion (WMD =-242.7, 95 % CI - 422.57, - 62.95; P = 0.008), reduced blood transfusion rate (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.58, 0.93; p = 0.010) and no increase (RR 0.25, 95 % CI 0.03, 2.22; P = 0.21) in the risk of deep vein thrombosis.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that antifibrinolytic agents significantly decrease blood loss, blood transfusion, and there is no increase in the risk of deep vein thrombosisfor transfusion requirements in spine surgery.

Topical tranexamic acid in total knee replacement: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

To examine the safety and efficacy of topical use of tranexamic acid (TA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

METHODS

An electronic literature search of PubMed Medline; Ovid Medline; Embase; and the Cochrane Library was performed, identifying studies published in any language from 1966 to February 2013. The studies enrolled adults undergoing a primary TKA, where topical TA was used. Inverse variance statistical method and either a fixed or random effect model, depending on the absence or presence of statistical heterogeneity were used; subgroup analysis was performed when possible.

RESULTS

We identified a total of seven eligible reports for analysis. Our meta-analysis indicated that when compared with the control group, topical application of TA limited significantly postoperative drain output (mean difference: -268.36ml), total blood loss (mean difference=-220.08ml), Hb drop (mean difference=-0.94g/dL) and lowered the risk of transfusion requirements (risk ratio=0.47, 95CI=0.26-0.84), without increased risk of thromboembolic events. Sub-group analysis indicated that a higher dose of topical TA (>2g) significantly reduced transfusion requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the present meta-analysis proved a statistically significant reduction of postoperative blood loss and transfusion requirements with topical use of TA in TKA, the clinical importance of the respective estimates of effect size should be interpreted with caution.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I, II.

Should chitosan and tranexamic acid be combined for improved hemostasis after sinus surgery?

Chitosan, a β-1,4-linked polymer of glucosamine with lesser amounts of N-acetylglucosamine, has well-recognized hemostatic properties. Chitosan is also able to open tight cellular junctions, facilitating paracellular drug transport and delivery. Chitosan, through topical application, facilitates the systemic delivery of analgesic drugs. Theoretically this ability could be used to enhance the local delivery of hemostatic drugs, such as tranexamic acid, improving chitosan's role as a topical dressing. Individually a chitosan-dextran gel and tranexamic acid have been shown to improve hemostasis after endoscopic sinus surgery. A combination of both should lead to improved hemostasis and better postsurgical outcomes. The use of a chitosan/tranexamic acid dressing could have a wide range of potential beneficial applications in a number of other clinical surgical settings. While the initial main application might be as an improved external hemostatic dressing, it should also be useful on a range of internal surgical wounds.

Dental extraction in the thrombocytopenic patient is safe and complications are easily managed

PURPOSE

To characterize bleeding risk and management of bleeding in thrombocytopenic patients undergoing dental extraction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 68 patients with hematologic disease and concomitant thrombocytopenia undergoing dental extractions. The inclusion criterion was a platelet count of 100,000/μL or less at the time of consultation or extraction. Patients using anticoagulation therapy were excluded from the study. Predictors measured were age, gender, platelet count, platelet transfusion before or during surgery, local hemostatic measurements at the time of surgery (absorbable hemostat or antifibrinolytic rinse), number of teeth extracted, diagnosis, and extraction type. The primary outcome was postoperative bleeding requiring intervention. A secondary outcome was surgical site infection. Descriptive and bivariate statistics were computed and the P value was set at .05. No logistic regression was used based on the distribution of outcomes.

RESULTS

Sixty-eight patients underwent extraction of 200 teeth. Five (7.4%) had postoperative bleeding that was always controlled with routine intervention. Mean platelet count was 44,647/μL. Bleeding was more frequent with lower platelet levels (P = .048). Thirty-two patients received platelet transfusion and 26 received local measures. Platelet transfusion and local hemostatic measures had no effect on bleeding outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Surgical and routine extractions are safe procedures in patients with thrombocytopenia, and postoperative bleeding is typically well handled with simple local measures. The benefits of pre- or intraoperative platelet transfusion are unclear in this population. Likewise, the benefit of prophylactic local hemostatic measures is unclear and should be based on the surgeon's discretion and experience.