Tranexamic Acid in Pertrochanteric Femoral Fracture: Is it a Safe Drug or Not?

The effects of three different low-molecular-weight heparins on blood loss after intramedullary nailing of trochanteric fractures

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of reviparin, dalteparin and enoxaparin on intraoperative blood loss in patients with trochanteric fracture treated with intramedullary nailing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective multicenter study included 100 patients with trochanteric fracture who were divided into three groups according to the low-molecular-weight heparin administered. In all cases, a short third generation Gamma nail was used for osteosynthesis. Complete blood count and number of red blood cell transfusions (RBC) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The mean value of postoperative haemoglobin level was lower in the enoxaparin group compared to the reviparin group, with significant difference (p = 0.001; 95% CI 4.1-18.87). Patients in the dalteparin group received more RBC transfusions compared to the reviparin and enoxaparin group (p = 0.048).

CONCLUSION

The use of enoxaparin and dalteparin in hip fracture patients can result in lower postoperative haemoglobin levels and more RBC transfusions compared to reviparin.

Intravenous application of tranexamic acid in intramedullary nailing for the treatment of geriatric intertrochanteric fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Meta-analyses on the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) in intertrochanteric fractures have shown inconsistent results due to variations in inclusion criteria and clinical heterogeneity. To address these limitations, we conducted a rigorous analysis of recent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with strict inclusion criteria. The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the effects and safety of intravenous TXA administration in the treatment of geriatric intertrochanteric femoral fractures with intramedullary nailing.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for RCTs published from the database inception to August 2022. The date of total blood loss (TBL), intra-operative blood loss (IBL), hidden blood loss (HBL), transfusion rate, transfusion units, thromboembolic events, and mortality were extracted. Review Manager 5.3 was used for the analysis.

RESULTS

A total of six RCTs involving 689 patients were included. Meta-analyses indicated that TXA can significantly reduce TBL (WMD = -232.82; 95% CI -312.81 to -152.84; p < 0.00001), IBL (WMD = -36.33; 95% CI -51.38 to -21.28; p < 0.00001), HBL (WMD = -189.23; 95% CI -274.92 to -103.54; p < 0.0001), transfusion rate (RR = 0.53; 95% CI 0.33 to 0.85; p = 0.008), and transfusion units (WMD = -0.58; 95% CI -0.75 to -0.41; p < 0.01). No increase in thromboembolic events rate (RR = 0.75; 95% CI 0.38 to 1.50; p = 0.42) and mortality (RR = 1.36; 95% CI 0.61 to 3.04; p = 0.45) was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Our meta-analysis provides robust evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of intravenous TXA administration in treating geriatric intertrochanteric femoral fractures with intramedullary nailing. TXA significantly reduces blood loss and transfusion requirements without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events or mortality.

Interventions for reducing red blood cell transfusion in adults undergoing hip fracture surgery: an overview of systematic reviews

BACKGROUND

Following hip fracture, people sustain an acute blood loss caused by the injury and subsequent surgery. Because the majority of hip fractures occur in older adults, blood loss may be compounded by pre-existing anaemia. Allogenic blood transfusions (ABT) may be given before, during, and after surgery to correct chronic anaemia or acute blood loss. However, there is uncertainty about the benefit-risk ratio for ABT. This is a potentially scarce resource, with availability of blood products sometimes uncertain. Other strategies from Patient Blood Management may prevent or minimise blood loss and avoid administration of ABT.

OBJECTIVES

To summarise the evidence from Cochrane Reviews and other systematic reviews of randomised or quasi-randomised trials evaluating the effects of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, administered perioperatively, on reducing blood loss, anaemia, and the need for ABT in adults undergoing hip fracture surgery.

METHODS

In January 2022, we searched the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, and five other databases for systematic reviews of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions given to prevent or minimise blood loss, treat the effects of anaemia, and reduce the need for ABT, in adults undergoing hip fracture surgery. We searched for pharmacological interventions (fibrinogen, factor VIIa and factor XIII, desmopressin, antifibrinolytics, fibrin and non-fibrin sealants and glue, agents to reverse the effects of anticoagulants, erythropoiesis agents, iron, vitamin B12, and folate replacement therapy) and non-pharmacological interventions (surgical approaches to reduce or manage blood loss, intraoperative cell salvage and autologous blood transfusion, temperature management, and oxygen therapy). We used Cochrane methodology, and assessed the methodological quality of included reviews using AMSTAR 2. We assessed the degree of overlap of RCTs between reviews. Because overlap was very high, we used a hierarchical approach to select reviews from which to report data; we compared the findings of selected reviews with findings from the other reviews. Outcomes were: number of people requiring ABT, volume of transfused blood (measured as units of packed red blood cells (PRC)), postoperative delirium, adverse events, activities of daily living (ADL), health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and mortality.

MAIN RESULTS

We found 26 systematic reviews including 36 RCTs (3923 participants), which only evaluated tranexamic acid and iron. We found no reviews of other pharmacological interventions or any non-pharmacological interventions. Tranexamic acid (17 reviews, 29 eligible RCTs) We selected reviews with the most recent search date, and which included data for the most outcomes. The methodological quality of these reviews was low. However, the findings were largely consistent across reviews. One review included 24 RCTs, with participants who had internal fixation or arthroplasty for different types of hip fracture. Tranexamic acid was given intravenously or topically during the perioperative period. In this review, based on a control group risk of 451 people per 1000, 194 fewer people per 1000 probably require ABT after receiving tranexamic acid (risk ratio (RR) 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.46 to 0.68; 21 studies, 2148 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). We downgraded the certainty for possible publication bias. Review authors found that there was probably little or no difference in the risks of adverse events, reported as deep vein thrombosis (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.74 to 1.81; 22 studies), pulmonary embolism (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.36 to 2.86; 9 studies), myocardial infarction (RR 1.00, 95% CI 0.23 to 4.33; 8 studies), cerebrovascular accident (RR 1.45, 95% CI 0.56 to 3.70; 8 studies), or death (RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.46; 10 studies). We judged evidence from these outcomes to be moderate certainty, downgraded for imprecision. Another review, with a similarly broad inclusion criteria, included 10 studies, and found that tranexamic acid probably reduces the volume of transfused PRC (0.53 fewer units, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.80; 7 studies, 813 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). We downgraded the certainty because of unexplained high levels of statistical heterogeneity. No reviews reported outcomes of postoperative delirium, ADL, or HRQoL. Iron (9 reviews, 7 eligible RCTs) Whilst all reviews included studies in hip fracture populations, most also included other surgical populations. The most current, direct evidence was reported in two RCTs, with 403 participants with hip fracture; iron was given intravenously, starting preoperatively. This review did not include evidence for iron with erythropoietin. The methodological quality of this review was low. In this review, there was low-certainty evidence from two studies (403 participants) that there may be little or no difference according to whether intravenous iron was given in: the number of people who required ABT (RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.73 to 1.11), the volume of transfused blood (MD -0.07 units of PRC, 95% CI -0.31 to 0.17), infection (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.55 to 1.80), or mortality within 30 days (RR 1.06, 95% CI 0.53 to 2.13). There may be little or no difference in delirium (25 events in the iron group compared to 26 events in control group; 1 study, 303 participants; low-certainty evidence). We are very unsure whether there was any difference in HRQoL, since it was reported without an effect estimate. The findings were largely consistent across reviews. We downgraded the evidence for imprecision, because studies included few participants, and the wide CIs indicated possible benefit and harm. No reviews reported outcomes of cognitive dysfunction, ADL, or HRQoL.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Tranexamic acid probably reduces the need for ABT in adults undergoing hip fracture surgery, and there is probably little or no difference in adverse events. For iron, there may be little or no difference in overall clinical effects, but this finding is limited by evidence from only a few small studies. Reviews of these treatments did not adequately include patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS), and evidence for their effectiveness remains incomplete. We were unable to effectively explore the impact of timing and route of administration between reviews. A lack of systematic reviews for other types of pharmacological or any non-pharmacological interventions to reduce the need for ABT indicates a need for further evidence syntheses to explore this. Methodologically sound evidence syntheses should include PROMS within four months of surgery.

Pharmacological interventions for the prevention of bleeding in people undergoing definitive fixation or joint replacement for hip, pelvic and long bone fractures

BACKGROUND

Pelvic, hip, and long bone fractures can result in significant bleeding at the time of injury, with further blood loss if they are treated with surgical fixation. People undergoing surgery are therefore at risk of requiring a blood transfusion and may be at risk of peri-operative anaemia. Pharmacological interventions for blood conservation may reduce the risk of requiring an allogeneic blood transfusion and associated complications.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effectiveness of different pharmacological interventions for reducing blood loss in definitive surgical fixation of the hip, pelvic, and long bones.

SEARCH METHODS

We used a predefined search strategy to search CENTRAL, MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Transfusion Evidence Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, and the WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) from inception to 7 April 2022, without restrictions on language, year, or publication status. We handsearched reference lists of included trials to identify further relevant trials. We contacted authors of ongoing trials to acquire any unpublished data.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of people who underwent trauma (non-elective) surgery for definitive fixation of hip, pelvic, and long bone (pelvis, tibia, femur, humerus, radius, ulna and clavicle) fractures only. There were no restrictions on gender, ethnicity, or age. We excluded planned (elective) procedures (e.g. scheduled total hip arthroplasty), and studies published since 2010 that had not been prospectively registered. Eligible interventions included: antifibrinolytics (tranexamic acid, aprotinin, epsilon-aminocaproic acid), desmopressin, factor VIIa and XIII, fibrinogen, fibrin sealants, and non-fibrin sealants.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted data. We assessed the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. We did not perform a network meta-analysis due to lack of data.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 13 RCTs (929 participants), published between 2005 and 2021. Three trials did not report any of our predefined outcomes and so were not included in quantitative analyses (all were tranexamic acid versus placebo). We identified three comparisons of interest: intravenous tranexamic acid versus placebo; topical tranexamic acid versus placebo; and recombinant factor VIIa versus placebo. We rated the certainty of evidence as very low to low across all outcomes. Comparison 1. Intravenous tranexamic acid versus placebo Intravenous tranexamic acid compared to placebo may reduce the risk of requiring an allogeneic blood transfusion up to 30 days (RR 0.48, 95% CI 0.34 to 0.69; 6 RCTs, 457 participants; low-certainty evidence) and may result in little to no difference in all-cause mortality (Peto odds ratio (Peto OR) 0.38, 95% CI 0.05 to 2.77; 2 RCTs, 147 participants; low-certainty evidence).  It may result in little to no difference in risk of participants experiencing myocardial infarction (risk difference (RD) 0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.03; 2 RCTs, 199 participants; low-certainty evidence), and cerebrovascular accident/stroke (RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.02; 3 RCTs, 324 participants; low-certainty evidence).  We are uncertain if there is a difference between groups for risk of deep vein thrombosis (Peto OR 2.15, 95% CI 0.22 to 21.35; 4 RCTs, 329 participants, very low-certainty evidence), pulmonary embolism (Peto OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.07 to 17.66; 4 RCTs, 329 participants; very low-certainty evidence), and suspected serious drug reactions (RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.03 to 0.03; 2 RCTs, 185 participants; very low-certainty evidence). No data were available for number of red blood cell units transfused, reoperation, or acute transfusion reaction. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence for imprecision (wide confidence intervals around the estimate and small sample size, particularly for rare events), and risk of bias (unclear or high risk methods of blinding and allocation concealment in the assessment of subjective measures), and upgraded the evidence for transfusion requirement for a large effect.  Comparison 2. Topical tranexamic acid versus placebo We are uncertain if there is a difference between topical tranexamic acid and placebo for risk of requiring an allogeneic blood transfusion (RR 0.31, 95% CI 0.08 to 1.22; 2 RCTs, 101 participants), all-cause mortality (RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.10 to 0.10; 1 RCT, 36 participants), risk of participants experiencing myocardial infarction (Peto OR 0.15, 95% CI 0.00 to 7.62; 1 RCT, 36 participants), cerebrovascular accident/stroke (RD 0.00, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.06; 1 RCT, 65 participants); and deep vein thrombosis (Peto OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.07 to 17.77; 2 RCTs, 101 participants).  All outcomes reported were very low-certainty evidence. No data were available for number of red blood cell units transfused, reoperation, incidence of pulmonary embolism, acute transfusion reaction, or suspected serious drug reactions. We downgraded the certainty of the evidence for imprecision (wide confidence intervals around the estimate and small sample size, particularly for rare events), inconsistency (moderate heterogeneity), and risk of bias (unclear or high risk methods of blinding and allocation concealment in the assessment of subjective measures, and high risk of attrition and reporting biases in one trial). Comparison 3. Recombinant factor VIIa versus placebo   Only one RCT of 48 participants reported data for recombinant factor VIIa versus placebo, so we have not presented the results here.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

We cannot draw conclusions from the current evidence due to lack of data. Most published studies included in our analyses assessed the use of tranexamic acid (compared to placebo, or using different routes of administration).  We identified 27 prospectively registered ongoing RCTs (total target recruitment of 4177 participants by end of 2023). The ongoing trials create six new comparisons: tranexamic acid (tablet + injection) versus placebo; intravenous tranexamic acid versus oral tranexamic acid; topical tranexamic acid versus oral tranexamic acid; different intravenous tranexamic acid dosing regimes; topical tranexamic acid versus topical fibrin glue; and fibrinogen (injection) versus placebo.

The correlates of post-surgical haematoma in older adults with proximal femoral fractures

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the incidence of haematoma, and clinical correlates among orthogeriatric patients.

AIMS

This study aims to describe the incidence of haematoma after surgical repair of hip fracture and to identify the clinical correlates of haematoma among orthogeriatric patients.

METHODS

Two orthopaedic surgeons and a dedicated operator using ultrasound technique, each other in blindness, evaluated 154 orthogeriatric patients during their hospital stay. All patients received a comprehensive geriatric assessment. We investigated the concordance between clinical diagnosis and ultrasound detection of haematoma, and then we explored the clinical correlates of the onset of post-surgical haematoma.

RESULTS

Blood effusion at the surgical site was detected in 77 (50%) patients using ultrasound technique; orthopaedic surgeons reached a clinical agreement about post-surgical haematoma in 18 (23%) patients. The sensitivity of clinical evaluation was 0.66, and the specificity was 0.70. Independent of age, clinical, pharmacological, and surgical confounders, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were associated with post-surgical haematoma (OR 2.28; 95% CI 1.15-4.49). A tendency towards association was observed between selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and post-surgical haematoma (OR 2.10; 95% CI 0.97-4.54), CONCLUSIONS: Half of older patients undergoing surgical repair of proximal femoral fracture develop a post-surgical haematoma. Clinical assessment, even if made by senior orthopaedic surgeons, underestimates the actual occurrence of post-surgical haematoma compared to ultrasound detection. Ultrasound technique may help to detect haematoma larger than 15 mm better than clinical assessment. PPIs's use is a risk factor for post-surgical haematoma independent of several medical and surgical confounders.

Intravenous tranexamic acid and thromboembolic events in hip fracture surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Osteoporotic hip fractures are a major health problem in developed countries. Surgical management is the mainstay of treatment for these injuries, and historically presents an increased risk of thromboembolism, blood loss and blood transfusion. Despite the demonstrated safety of tranexamic acid (TXA) in elective hip arthroplasty, there is uncertainty regarding the risk of thromboembolism with the administration of TXA during hip fracture surgery. This study aims to address the following questions regarding patients undergoing traumatic hip fracture surgery: 1. Does intravenous TXA increase the risk of thromboembolic events? 2. Does intravenous TXA reduce peri-operative blood loss? 3. Does intravenous TXA increase the risk of non-thromboembolic complications or post-operative mortality?

METHODS

A literature search of Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Register of Controlled Trials and CINAHL was conducted, assessing results from database inception until the 11th May, 2021. We included randomised controlled trials that investigated perioperative administration of intravenous TXA in patients undergoing hip fracture surgery, compared to a control cohort. We excluded articles published in a language other than English, evaluated elective hip arthroplasty, or did not report thromboembolic events. Included trials were analysed using RevMan v5.3.

RESULTS

Sixteen articles encompassing 1491 patients met inclusion criteria. The risk difference of thromboembolic events in the TXA group was 0.02 (95%C.I. -0.01-0.04; p=0.17). TXA reduced post-operative transfusion rates by 42% (range: 28-54%, p<0.0001). The mean haemoglobin was higher in the TXA group on post-operative day one (0.77g/dL, p<0.0001), day two (0.56g/dL, p<0.0001) and day three (0.42g/dL, p<0.0001). There was no statistically significant difference in non-thromboembolic complications or post-operative mortality across the two cohorts.

DISCUSSION

There is no conclusive evidence from the current published literature that peri-operative intravenous TXA administration increases the risk of thromboembolic events after hip fracture surgery. This meta-analysis reinforces that TXA is effective in reducing post-operative transfusions and haemoglobin decline after hip fracture surgery. This study found that TXA did not increase non-thromboembolic complications or post-operative mortality. Further large-scale studies evaluating thromboembolic complications as a primary outcome are required to definitively establish the safety of TXA in hip fracture surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I; meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials.

One-stage vs two-stage bilateral THA in Lombardy: a cost-effectiveness analysis

BACKGROUND

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is the most common treatment for primary and secondary end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA). Almost 20% of all patients undergoing primary THA suffer from bilateral hip OA and, consequently, will need a contralateral procedure to be performed in the following years. The aim of this study is to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and the reliability of one-stage bilateral THA (1-BTHA) compared to two-stage bilateral THA (2-BTHA), in low-risk patients, performed with anterior minimally invasive surgery (AMIS).

METHODS

Single patient's costs were obtained by dividing the annual costs report by the number of hospitalizations, considering the diagnosis related group (DRG) of the two procedures. Then, 16 patients undergoing 1-BTHA and 8 undergoing 2-BTHA were examined. Hemoglobin (Hb) values before surgery and before discharge, transfusion rate and the occurrence of post-operative complications were observed.

RESULTS

Procedural costs were divided in different subgroups: pre-hospitalization, operating room, hospital stay, post-operative follow-up and other costs. 1-BTHA total costs amount to 5.754,82€, while performing 2-BTHA costs 7.624,32€. However, considering DRG reimbursement, the hospital's profit margin following 1-BTHA is lower than that following 2-BTHA (6.346,18€ versus 9.261,68€). Surgical time was found not to be significantly different between 1-BTHA and 2-BTHA (141,13 ± 26,1 min vs 164,8 ± 44,3 min; p = 0,111). The two groups showed a statistically significant difference in Hb decrease (4,8 ± 1,3 g/dl vs 3,3 ± 0,9; p = 0,001), despite no variances in transfusion rate. No further complications were observed in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates how, in carefully selected patients, 1-BTHA performed with AMIS is a cost-effective and safe technique compared to 2-BTHA, resulting in a shorter OR time, LOS and lower overall costs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III.

Tranexamic Acid in Hip Hemiarthroplasty Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of Perioperative Outcome

Introduction: Implantation of a dual-head hip prosthesis to treat medial femoral neck fractures is often associated with significant blood loss. In elective endoprosthetics procedures, it has already been demonstrated that administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) reduces blood loss and need for postoperative transfusions, as well as reducing the frequency of postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to show whether the administration of TXA also leads to a reduction in perioperative blood loss and haemorrhage-associated complications when applied as part of treatment of femoral neck fractures using a dual-head prosthesis. Methods: In a single-centre retrospective cohort study, 1 g TXA i.v. was administered preoperatively to 93 patients who had suffered from femoral neck fractures. This group was compared to a comparison group of 65 patients who did not receive TXA (nonTXA). Outcomes were evaluated on the basis of perioperative blood loss, frequency of transfusion, and frequency of specific complications occurring. Results: The transfusion rate in the TXA group was 6% lower, whereby the volume of blood transfused was 26.7% lower than in the nonTXA group. However, neither result was significant. The calculated perioperative blood loss remained the same. Similarly, the incidence of postoperative renal failure was not significantly lower in the TXA group, at 6.5%, as compared to the nonTXA group (7.7%). A higher rate of complications or deaths as a result of TXA administration was not observed. The tranexamic acid effect seems to be related to the dose. Conclusion: Preoperative administration of TXA during implantation of a dual-head prosthesis for treatment of a femoral neck fracture does not lead to an increased complication rate. The study revealed a trend towards fewer transfusions required, but a significant reduction in blood loss could not be demonstrated. There should be further investigation of other factors influencing blood loss, in particular the dosing regimen followed for perioperative administration of TXA. Level of Evidence: Level 4: retrospective case-control study.

The Effects of Three Different Low-molecular-weight Heparins on Blood Loss After Intramedullary Nailing of Trochanteric Fractures

Background

The three most commonly used low-molecular-weight heparins (LMWH) in Bosnia and Herzegovina for thromboprophylaxis in patients with hip fracture are reviparin, dalteparin and enoxaparin.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of reviparin, dalteparin and enoxaparin on intraoperative blood loss in patients with trochanteric fracture treated with intramedullary nailing.

Methods

This retrospective multicenter study included 100 patients with trochanteric fracture who were divided into three groups according to the low-molecular-weight heparin administered. In all cases, a short third generation Gamma-nail was used for osteosynthesis. Complete blood count and number of red blood cell transfusions (RBC) were evaluated. Results: The mean value of postoperative hemoglobin level was lower in the enoxaparin group compared to the reviparin group, with significant difference (p=0.001; 95% CI: 4.1-18.87). Patients in the dalteparin group received more RBC transfusions compared to the reviparin and enoxaparin group (p=0.048).

Conclusion

The use of enoxaparin and dalteparin in hip fracture patients can result in lower postoperative haemoglobin levels and more RBC transfusions compared to reviparin.

Tranexamic acid in pertrochanteric fractures: a retrospective analysis of perioperative outcomes after fixation with a proximal femoral nail

Background

Treatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures is often associated with significant blood loss. It has already been demonstrated that the administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) for endoprosthetic procedures reduces blood losses and leads to a decreased frequency of postoperative complications. The aim of this study is to demonstrate whether the administration of TXA as part of osteosynthesis treatment for pertrochanteric fractures using a proximal femoral nail reduces perioperative blood losses and haemorrhage-related complications.

Methods

In a two-centre retrospective cohort study, 1 g TXA i.v. was administered preoperatively to 294 patients who had suffered from pertrochanteric femoral fractures. The subjects were compared clinically to a historical control group who did not receive TXA (nonTXA). Outcomes were evaluated on the basis of perioperative blood loss, transfusion requirement, and occurrence of complications.

Results

The TXA group showed evidence of a reduction in blood loss (TXA = 0.97 ± 0.47 l; nonTXA = 1.06 ± 0.47 l; p = 0.004) and a lower frequency of transfusion (TXA = 20%; nonTXA = 31%; p = 0.032) as compared to the nonTXA group. However, evidence of this therapeutic effect could only be demonstrated at one of the centres on subgroup comparison between the two centres. At the second centre, the data did not show a significant difference. A trend could be seen towards a reduction in postoperative renal failure. No complications occurred resulting from the administration of tranexamic acid.

Conclusion

Preoperative administration of TXA does not lead to an increased rate of thromboembolic complications when applied for treatment of pertrochanteric femoral fractures. Evidence of a positive effect could be seen in principle in relation to the reduction in perioperative blood loss and the frequency of transfusion. The difference in effect between the two centres remains to be clarified: for this reason, it is possible to assume that further factors influencing the efficacy of TXA administration are at play which were not taken into account in this study.

Tranexamic acid usage in hip fracture surgery: a meta-analysis and meta-regression analysis of current practice

INTRODUCTION

The use of tranexamic acid (TXA) in hip fracture surgery remains inconclusive. The aim of the present meta-analysis was to assess the role of TXA use in hip fracture surgery, and attempt to disclose possible factors which might influence TXA efficacy and safety.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic computerized literature search was conducted to retrieve all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies regarding TXA use in hip fracture surgery. Overall efficacy and safety were evaluated. Then, subgroup and meta-regression analyses were conducted to disclose the influence of geographic area, fracture type, administration route, frequency and dosage of TXA, blood transfusion threshold, and follow-up duration on the overall effect.

RESULTS

Thirty-four RCTs and 11 cohort studies were included. Patients receiving TXA had a significant decrease in the need for blood transfusion, reduced total, intra-operative and post-operative blood loss, a decrease in pre- and postoperative hemoglobin difference, without increasing thromboembolic events risk. Subgroup analysis showed that topical TXA had a lower transfusion rate compared with controls, yet the result did not reach statistical significance. Also, TXA had similar efficacy and safety profiles in patients with different frequency and dosage of TXA.

CONCLUSION

Current evidence indicated that intravenous administration of TXA could significantly reduce blood transfusion and blood loss without increasing risk of thromboembolic events. The frequency and dosage of TXA might not alter the beneficial effect. The application of topical TXA should be cautious.

Field tourniquets in an austere military environment: A prospective case series

OBJECTIVE

Field tourniquets are often used for battlefield extremity injuries. Their effectiveness has been documented by a large combat theater trauma center. However, their use and effectiveness by an austere forward surgical team has not been reported. Aims of this study were to determine: Whether field tourniquets: (1) Were placed for appropriate indications; (2) significantly reduced hemorrhage as measured by transfusion requirements; (3) influenced vital signs and injury severity scores; and (4) did they cause limb amputation, changed amputation level, or other complications.

METHODS

Twenty-five patients with 30 involved extremities presenting to a forward surgical team in Iraq met the inclusion criteria. We prospectively collected data regarding the presence, indications for, and effectiveness of field tourniquets based on the need for blood transfusion. We recorded any complications associated with their use.

RESULTS

Tourniquets significantly reduced hemorrhage from penetrating injuries as measured by transfusion requirements. Those having major vascular injuries with effective tourniquets, a total of 12 units of blood were transfused (1.7 units/vascular injury; 2 units/patient). However, 19 units were transfused in patients (3.3 units/vascular injury; 3.8 units/patient) who had an ineffective or no tourniquet (p = 0.0006). Transfusion requirements were related the presence of an effective tourniquet regardless of concomitant injuries. The group with effective tourniquets and compressed hemorrhage presented with higher mean systolic (p = 0.003) and diastolic (p = 0.023) blood pressures than the group with no tourniquets or ineffective ones. Complications included one peroneal nerve palsy and no amputations resulted from tourniquet application.

CONCLUSION

Field tourniquets applied for penetrating injuries with severe bleeding can significantly reduce transfusion requirements and help maintain adequate blood pressure. Tourniquets were not the proximate cause of amputation and did not determine the choice of immediate amputation level.

Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid for patients with intertrochanteric fractures treated with intramedullary fixation: A systematic review and meta-analysis of current evidence in randomized controlled trials

Background: Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely applied to reduce perioperative bleeding. Recently, several studies focused on the administration of TXA in the treatment for with intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with intramedullary fixation. However, the efficacy and safety of TXA in these studies remain controversial. Therefore, we performed this systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy and safety of TXA in intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with intramedullary fixation.

Methods: We systematically searched electronic databases, including Cochrane, PubMed, and EMBASE, up to 16 May 2022. The efficacy and safety of TXA was evaluated in four aspects, which were bleeding-related outcomes, non-bleeding-related outcomes, thromboembolic events, and other complications. The outcomes of these studies were extracted and analyzed by RevMan Manager 5.4.

Results: Finally, nine randomized controlled trials, involving nine hundred and seventy-two intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with TXA, were enrolled in this study. In the bleeding-related outcomes, TXA group was significantly lower than the control group in terms of total blood loss (MD = −219.42; 95% CI, −299.80 to −139.03; p &lt; 0.001), intraoperative blood loss (MD = −36.81; 95% CI, −54.21 to −19.41; p &lt; 0.001), hidden blood loss (MD = −189.23; 95% CI, −274.92 to −103.54; p &lt; 0.001), and transfusion rate (RR = 0.64; 95% CI, 0.49 to 0.85; p = 0.002). Moreover, the postoperative hemoglobin on day 3 of the TXA group was significantly higher than that of the control group (MD = 5.75; 95% CI, 1.26 to 10.23; p = 0.01). In the non-bleeding-related outcomes, the length of hospital stays was significantly shorter in the TXA group (MD = −0.67; 95% CI, −1.12 to −0.23; p = 0.003). In terms of thromboembolic events, there was no significant differences between the TXA group and control group in deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, and ischemic stroke. As for complications and mortality, there was no significant differences between the TXA group and control group in respiratory infection, renal failure, and postoperative mortality within 1 year.

Conclusion: TXA is an effective and safe drug for perioperative bleeding control in intertrochanteric fracture patients treated with intramedullary fixation. However, the long-term efficacy of TXA still needs to be investigated by large-scale multicenter randomized controlled trials.

Level of evidence: II, Systematic review and Meta-analysis.

Systematic Review Registration:https://inplasy.com/, identifier [INPLASY202280027]

Outcome of Surgical Management of Hemophilic Pseudotumor: Review of 10 Cases from Single-Center

Objective

To evaluate the operative methods and clinical results of surgical treatment in a case series of 10 patients with hemophilic pseudotumors.

Methods

Ten patients with hemophilic pseudotumors who received surgical resection treatment in our hospital from October 2017 to June 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were hemophilia A (factor VIII deficiency).The age range was 20–51 years. Preoperative imaging examination revealed the size of irregular mass from 8.2 cm× 3.3 cm× 2.3 cm to 22.3 cm× 15.5 cm× 17.0 cm. With the supplementary of recombinant coagulation factor VIII, five cases received complete resection; one received resection and skin grafting; one received cytoreduction surgery as the pseudotumor closing to iliac vessel and nerve; three cases received complete resection and construction as bone destruction. The perioperative variables were recorded and all the patients were followed in the outpatient clinic. Clinical and radiological assessments were conducted.

Results

In these patients, the average intraoperative blood loss volume was 783.1 mL (range, 240–2100 mL). Six patients received blood transfusion during perioperative period. The average duration of surgery was 140.7 min (range, 110–240 min). All wounds healed smoothly and there was no infection or chronic sinus formation. The average length of hospital stay was 16.3 days (range, 12–25 days). There is no iatrogenic vascular nerve injury in our series. Complete follow‐up was performed in all patients. Mean follow‐up duration was 14.2 months (range, 6–26 months). One patient with pseudotumor in the thigh had a recurrence 1 year after operation, then secondary operation was performed. In three cases who received complete resection and construction, patient 8 obtained bone graft and late fixation. X‐ray examination showed bone formation in the lesion at the 2‐year follow‐ups after operation. Patient 9 underwent knee replacement, his left knee showed flexion deformity in preoparation. At the last follow‐up, range of motion was improved from 0° to 40° compared with preoperative status. Patient 10 had pseudotumor in the distal femur, received long bone graft and intramedullary nail fixation.

Conclusions

Surgical resection for hemophilic pseudotumors is an effective and safe method. The choice of surgical procedure must be individualized according to the localization and progress of pseudotumor.

Cemented hemiarthroplasty versus proximal femoral nail antirotation in the management of intertrochanteric femoral fractures in the elderly: a case control study

Background

The treatment for intertrochanteric femoral fractures (IFF) among the elderly has been a controversial topic. Hemiarthroplasty (HA) and proximal femoral nail antirotation (PFNA) have their own advantages in the management of IFF. Hence, this study aims to compare and analyze differences in the effectiveness of both procedures on IFF among the elderly.

Methods

Overall, 99 patients (81.09 ± 8.29 years; 68 women) underwent HA or PFNA from January 2016 to May 2020. IFF were classified according to the Arbeitsgemeins für Osteosynthesefragen (AO) classification. The difference in underlying diseases, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) grade, Singh index, Harris scores, surgical time, intraoperative bleeding, postoperative blood test results, postoperative number of days to partially bearing weight, and survival outcomes were analyzed. Postoperative follow-ups were performed every 3 months.

Results

There was no significant difference in the AO classification, underlying diseases, ASA grade, Singh index, surgical time, and survival outcomes of the HA (45 patients) group and PFNA group (54 patients). The HA group was associated with earlier partial weight-bearing (HA: 4 [2 ~ 4.5] days, PFNA: 10 [8~14] days). It also had a higher total Harris score than the PFNA group at the 6-month follow-up visit (HA: 86.8 [81.90 ~ 90.23], PFNA: 83.48 [75.13 ~ 88.23]). Harris scores decreased more in patients aged ≥90 years in the PFNA group than in the HA group. The postoperative stress recovery rate in the HA group was faster based on postoperative blood test results.

Conclusions

PFNA and HA have good therapeutic effects in the treatment of IFF. The advantages of HA were reflected in short-term weight bearing, faster recovery from stress, and better joint function in the long term. This advantage is more obvious in the patient population aged over 90 years. Therefore, we suggest that surgeons should consider the benefit of HA in the treatment of IFF among the elderly.

Trial registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR2000035814. Registered 17 August 2020, https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=57083

Management of pertrochanteric fractures in patients over 90 years: In-hospital mortality rate, complications and associated risk factors

PURPOSE

This study aims primarily to investigate the outcome following surgical management of pertrochanteric fractures of patients over 90 years compared to the outcome of a control group below 90 years under special consideration of the timing of surgery. The second aim was to analyze potential risk factors for early deaths in very old patients. This study allows us to draw conclusions to minimize complications linked to this particular age segment.

METHODS

The study group consisted of very old patients aged 90 years and older. Geriatric patients aged between 60 and 89 years of age were part of the control group. Type A1 pertrochanteric fractures were typically treated by dynamic hip crews, type A2 and A3 fractures by femoral nails. Full weight bearing physiotherapy was initiated on the day after surgery to improve mobility and muscle strength.

RESULTS

A total of 71 patients belonged to the study group (mean age: 92.5 years ±2.3 years), whereas 223 patients formed the control group (mean age: 79.9 ± 7.4 years). The mortality rate and the number of detected and documented complications were significantly higher in the study group (p = 0.001; p = 0.009, respectively). Despite the significantly higher complication rate in the > 90-year-old patients, there was no significant difference in the mean length of in-hospital-stay between the both groups (> 90 yrs.: 12.1d; < 90 yrs.: 13.1 d) and the timing of surgery.

CONCLUSION

The number of co-morbidities, number of daily-administered medications and the time between admission and surgery have no impact on the outcome. We noticed a longer period between admission and surgery in very old patients who survived. Patients with pertrochanteric fractures should be screened for multimorbidity and cognitive disorders in a standardized manner.

The Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid Treatment in Orthopaedic Trauma Surgery

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Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a drug used to control hemorrhage by preventing the breakdown of fibrin.

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TXA is a cost-effective treatment for trauma patients across a variety of economic settings.

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Concerns of TXA causing thromboembolic events (TEEs) in orthopaedic trauma patients are not supported by evidence.

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TXA has been shown to reduce blood loss in hip fracture surgery.

The efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in the treatment of intertrochanteric fracture: an updated meta-analysis of 11 randomized controlled trials

This meta-analysis was performed to investigate the efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid (TXA) in the elderly patients undergoing intertrochanteric fracture surgery from the current literatures. The electronic literature database of PubMed, Embase and Cochrane library were searched in October 2019. The intraoperative blood loss, hidden blood loss, postoperative drainage and total blood loss, postoperative hemoglobin, length of stay, transfusion rate, mortality rate, thromboembolic events and wound complications were extracted. Stata 14.0 software was used for our meta-analysis. A total of 11 RCTs (3 new RCTs in 2019) with 1202 patients met our inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis showed that administration of TXA can reduce intraoperative blood loss (P = 0.009), hidden blood loss (P = 0.000), total blood loss (P = 0.000), length of stay (P = 0.003), transfusion rate (P = 0.000) and the occurrence of wound complications (P = 0.006). Furthermore, administration of TXA was associated with an increase in the postoperative Hb level at day 1, 2 and 3 (P = 0.000, P = 0.000 and P = 0.000, respectively) after surgery. However, no significant difference was found between the TXA group and control group regarding the occurrence of thromboembolic events (P = 0.978, including deep vein thrombosis, P = 0.850; pulmonary embolism, P = 0.788; cerebrovascular accident, P = 0.549; myocardial infarction, P = 0.395) and mortality rate (P = 0. 338). Our meta-analysis suggested that administration of TXA is effective in reducing intraoperative blood loss, hidden blood loss, total blood loss, length of stay, transfusion rate, wound complications and enhancing postoperative Hb without increasing the risk of thromboembolic events and mortality rate in intertrochanteric fracture surgery. More large multi-center and high-quality RCTs are required for further research.

[Efficacy and safety of intravenous combined with topical administration of tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss after intramedullary fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures]

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of intravenous combined with topical administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss after intramedullary fixation of intertrochanteric femoral fractures by a prospective controlled trial.

Methods

Patients with intertrochanteric femoral fractures, who were admitted for intramedullary fixation between June 2015 and July 2019, were selected as the study subjects, 120 of whom met the selection criteria. The patients were randomly assigned to 3 groups: intravenous administration group (group A, 41 cases), topical administration group (group B, 40 cases), and combined administrations group (group C, 39 cases). In group A, 4 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation, 1 patient died of myocardial infarction on the 5th day after operation, and 1 patient developed severe pulmonary infection after operation. In group B, 2 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation and 1 patient had iatrogenic fracture during operation. In group C, 3 patients occurred deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity before operation and 1 patient developed pulmonary infection before operation and gave up surgical treatment. All the above patients were excluded from the study, and the remaining 107 cases were included in the analysis, including 35, 37, and 35 cases in groups A, B, and C, respectively. There was no significant difference in gender, age, height, body mass, injury cause, fracture side and type, the interval between injury and operation, and preoperative hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit between groups ( P>0.05). Intraoperative TXA (15 mg/kg) was injected intravenously in group A at 30 minutes before operation, and 1 g of TXA was injected into the medullary cavity in group B after the proximal femur was grooted and before the intramedullary nail implantation, respectively. TXA was given in group C before and during operation according to the administration methods and dosage of groups A and B. Total blood loss, maximum Hb decrease, blood transfusion rate, operation time, fracture healing time, and the incidence of complications were recorded and compared between groups. The hip joint function were evaluated by Harris score.

Results

There was no significant difference in operation time between groups ( P>0.05). The total blood loss, the maximum Hb decrease, and the blood transfusion rate in group B were the highest, followed by group A and group C, and the differences between groups were significant ( P<0.05). No incision infection or pulmonary embolism occurred in the 3 groups after operation. The incidence of anemia in group C was significantly lower than that in groups A and B, the difference was significant ( P<0.05). There was no significant difference in the incidence of subcutaneous hematoma, aseptic exudation, and deep vein thrombosis of lower extremity between groups ( P>0.05). All patients in the 3 groups were followed up 8-35 months, with an average of 16.2 months. The fracture healing time of groups A, B, and C was (6.12±1.78), (5.89±1.63), and (5.94±1.69) months, respectively, and there was no significant difference between groups ( P>0.05). At last follow-up, the Harris scores of the hip joints in groups A, B, and C were 83.18±7.76, 84.23±8.01, and 85.43±8.34, and the difference was not significant ( P>0.05).

Conclusion

Preoperative intravenous injection combined with intraoperative topical application of TXA can effectively reduce blood loss and blood transfusion after intramedullary fixation of femoral intertrochanteric fracture, without increasing the risk of deep vein thrombosis, and the efficacy is better than that of intravenous injection or topical administration.

Relationship between the AB0 Blood System and Proximal Femoral Fracture Patterns in the Turkish Population

Objective. AB0 blood groups have shown to be associated with increased risk of several orthopedic disorders such as Achilles tendon rupture and hip osteoarthritis. The objective of this study was to investigate relationships between the AB0 blood system and hip fracture patterns, duration of hospitalization, and amount of blood transfusion. Methods. Data of 308 patients treated due to hip fractures in our hospital between 2017 and 2019 were evaluated. Epicrisis reports and X-rays of the patients included in this study were retrospectively screened, and hip fractures were classified as intracapsular and extracapsular fractures. Patients were divided into A, B, 0, and AB groups according to blood groups. Results. The mean age of the patients was 75.54±13.5 years. Of all patients, 103 had an intracapsular fracture and 205 had an extracapsular fracture. No statistically significant correlation was found between blood groups and fracture patterns. No statistically significant difference was found between the amounts of transfusion according to the blood groups, and no significant difference between the durations of hospitalizations according to the blood groups. Conclusion. In our study population, we could not find a significant relationship between the AB0 blood system and fracture patterns. We think that these potential relationships could be explained with further comprehensive studies with larger populations.

Postoperative outcomes of tranexamic acid use in geriatric trauma patients treated with proximal femoral intramedullary nails: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Recently, there has been a series of clinical studies focusing on the perioperative administration of tranexamic acid (TXA) in geriatric trauma patients undergoing proximal femoral intramedullary nail surgery. However, the safety and efficacy of TXA in these patients remains controversial. Therefore, we performed a systematic review to focus on two questions: (1) would TXA reduce perioperative blood loss in geriatric trauma patients undergoing proximal femoral intramedullary nail surgery? and (2) would TXA increase the rate of perioperative complications in geriatric trauma patients undergoing proximal femoral intramedullary nail surgery?

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We systematically searched electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) up to April 20, 2019. The perioperative blood loss and complication data were extracted and analysed by RevMan Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

Finally, five randomized controlled studies, involving 539 geriatric intertrochanteric fracture patients undergoing proximal femoral intramedullary nail surgery, were enrolled in this systematic review. Compared with the control group, the TXA group had significantly lower total perioperative blood loss (WMD=-172.84; 95% CI, -241.44 to -104.24; I²=0%), intraoperative blood loss (WMD=-34.20; 95% CI, -46.04 to -22.36; I²=0%), total perioperative hidden blood loss (WMD=-139.05; 95% CI, -213.67 to -64.43; I²=0%), perioperative transfusion rates (RR =-0.16; 95% CI, -0.24 to -0.08; I²=22%), length of hospital stay (WMD=-1.18; 95% CI, -1.91 to -0.46; p=0.001; I2=12%), and postoperative wound haematoma rates (RD=-0.05; 95% CI, -0.09 to 0.00; p=0.03; I²=0%). In addition, there were no significant differences between TXA and control groups in the terms of surgical time, postoperative mortality, total thromboembolic events, wound infections, cerebrovascular accidents, respiratory infections, and renal failure.

DISCUSSION

TXA in geriatric trauma patients undergoing intramedullary nail surgery is effective for perioperative haemostasis without increasing the incidence of postoperative complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II, Systematic review and Meta-analysis.

[Research progress on tranexamic acid in traumatic orthopedic surgery]

OBJECTIVE

To summarize the research progress on the application of tranexamic acid (TXA) in traumatic orthopedic surgery in recent years.

METHODS

The domestic and foreign literature in recent years was reviewed, and the efficacy and safety of TXA in traumatic orthopedic surgeries with different regimen, dose and route of administration were comprehensively summarized and compared.

RESULTS

The application of TXA in traumatic orthopedic surgeries increased gradually in recent years. Intravenous or topical administration of TXA efficaciously reduced blood loss and transfusion requirements during hip fracture surgery without significantly increasing the risk of thromboembolic events. However, the efficacy was not clear in other traumatic orthopedic surgeries such as pelvic and acetabular fractures.

CONCLUSION

More studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of TXA in traumatic orthopedic surgeries.

Timing of major fracture care in polytrauma patients - An update on principles, parameters and strategies for 2020

OBJECTIVES

Sustained changes in resuscitation and transfusion management have been observed since the turn of the millennium, along with an ongoing discussion of surgical management strategies. The aims of this study are threefold: a) to evaluate the objective changes in resuscitation and mass transfusion protocols undertaken in major level I trauma centers; b) to summarize the improvements in diagnostic options for early risk profiling in multiply injured patients and c) to assess the improvements in surgical treatment for acute major fractures in the multiply injured patient.

METHODS

I. A systematic review of the literature (comprehensive search of the MEDLINE, Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases) and a concomitant data base (from a single Level I center) analysis were performed. Two authors independently extracted data using a pre-designed form. A pooled analysis was performed to determine the changes in the management of polytraumatized patients after the change of the millennium. II. A data base from a level I trauma center was utilized to test any effects of treatment changes on outcome.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

adult patients, ISS > 16, admission < less than 24 h post trauma. Exclusion: Oncological diseases, genetic disorders that affect the musculoskeletal system. Parameters evaluated were mortality, ICU stay, ICU complications (Sepsis, Pneumonia, Multiple organ failure).

RESULTS

I. From the electronic databases, 5141 articles were deemed to be relevant. 169 articles met the inclusion criteria and a manual review of reference lists of key articles identified an additional 22 articles. II. Out of 3668 patients, 2694 (73.4%) were male, the mean ISS was 28.2 (SD 15.1), mean NISS was 37.2 points (SD 17.4 points) and the average length of stay was 17.0 days (SD 18.7 days) with a mean length of ICU stay of 8.2 days (SD 10.5 days), and a mean ventilation time of 5.1 days (SD 8.1 days). Both surgical management and nonsurgical strategies have changed over time. Damage control resuscitation, dynamic analyses of coagulopathy and lactate clearance proved to sharpen the view of the worsening trauma patient and facilitated the prevention of further complications. The subsequent surgical care has become safer and more balanced, avoiding overzealous initial surgeries, while performing early fixation, when patients are physiologically stable or rapidly improving. Severe chest trauma and soft tissue injuries require further evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple changes in management (resuscitation, transfusion protocols and balanced surgical care) have taken place. Moreover, improvement in mortality rates and complications associated with several factors were also observed. These findings support the view that the management of polytrauma patients has been substantially improved over the past 3 decades.

Is intravenous tranexamic acid effective and safe during hip fracture surgery? An updated meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

INTRODUCTION

The efficacy and safety of intravenous (IV) tranexamic acid (TXA) during hip fracture surgery remain controversial. This meta-analysis aimed to assess the efficacy of IV-TXA administration during hip fracture surgery for reducing the transfusion requirement and blood loss as well as its safety regarding the risk of thrombolysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library Database were systematically searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that focused on the efficacy and safety of IV-TXA in patients during hip fracture surgery. The primary outcome was the transfusion requirement. Secondary outcomes included total blood loss (TBL), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and total thromboembolic events (TTEs). Risk ratio (RR), risk difference (RD), and mean difference (MD) for dichotomous and continuous data outcomes were determined from the meta-analysis. Data were analyzed using Rev Man 5.3.

RESULTS

Altogether, 11 RCTs were included (total sample size 892 patients). IV-TXA significantly reduced the transfusion requirement [RR 0.60, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.38-0.93, P = 0.02] and TBL (MD 326.64 ml, 95% CI - 462.23 to - 191.06, P < 0.00001) vs. cosntrol group. IV-TXA caused no increased risk of DVT (RD 0.02, 95% CI - 0.01 to 0.04, P = 0.13) or TTEs (RD 0.02, 95% CI - 0.01 to 0.05, P = 0.12).

CONCLUSION

Available evidence indicates that IV-TXA efficaciously reduces TBL and transfusion requirements during hip fracture surgery without significantly increasing the risk of TTEs including DVT.

Efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in elderly patients with intertrochanteric fracture: An updated meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Intertrochanteric fracture (ITF) is a common type of injury, and nearly 30% of ITF patients die in the first 12 mo, especially the elderly with limited activity. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used in reducing traumatic and surgical bleeding, however, the paucity of studies regarding its use in orthopedic trauma surgery has limited its integration into this field, which may benefit most from TXA. The safety of TXA in this group has not achieved a consensus.

AIM

This meta-analysis was designed to investigate the efficacy and safety of TXA in elderly ITF patients undergoing surgery.

METHODS

Databases, including Medline and PubMed, were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that were published before October 2018 and that addressed the efficacy and safety of TXA in patients who underwent ITF surgery. The Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials 2010 Statement Checklist was used to assess the methodological quality of each study. Trials without and with heterogeneity were compared by fixed-effects analysis and random-effects analysis, respectively. For each study, odds ratio (OR) and 95%CI and mean differences and 95%CI were calculated for dichotomous and continuous outcomes, respectively. The Power and Sample Size Program software was used to calculate power and sample size. Stability of the results was assessed via sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 836 patients from eight RCTs were subjected to meta-analysis. TXA treatment compared with the control group significantly reduced postoperative blood loss (95%CI, -20.83 to -7.93 mL, P < 0.0001), hidden blood loss (95%CI, -213.67 to -64.43 mL, P = 0.0003), and total blood loss (95%CI, -332.49 to -23.18 mL, P = 0.02) by weighted mean differences of -14.38, -139.05, and -177.83 mL, respectively. However, no significant difference was observed between groups for analysis of intraoperative blood loss. The meta-analysis also proved that the usage of TXA in ITFs may not significantly increase the incidence of deep venous thrombosis. Allogeneic blood transfusion data showed that significantly fewer patients in the TXA group (42%) required transfusion than the control group (95%CI, 0.36 to 0.69; P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

In ITF surgery, intravenous administration of TXA reduces the risk of hidden blood loss and the need for allogeneic transfusion, without increasing thrombotic risk.

Tranexamic Acid in the Treatment of Hip Fractures: A Clinical Review

INTRODUCTION

Although regularly used as a method to reduce blood loss in elective orthopedic procedures (e.g., total hip and knee arthroplasty), there currently is little evidence concerning the optimal dosage, timing and route for the use of tranexamic acid to reduce postoperative blood loss in hip fracture repair.

SUMMARY OF THE EVIDENCE

The current literature suggests that tranexamic acid may be used to reduce postoperative blood loss in addition to reducing the risk of requiring blood transfusions following the surgical repair of hip fractures. Furthermore, it may have the potential to improve patient outcomes and decrease the overall costs of caring for this patient population.

CONCLUSIONS

Further studies are needed to truly gauge the effect of tranexamic acid on long-term patient outcomes and hospital costs.