Tranexamic acid for the prevention and management of orthopedic surgical hemorrhage: current evidence

Abstract

Christopher Kim, Sam Si-Hyeong Park, J Roderick Davey Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Toronto Western Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, CanadaAbstract: Total joint arthroplasty can be associated with major blood loss and require subsequent blood transfusions for postoperative anemia. Measures to effectively and safely decrease blood loss and reduce the need for blood transfusions would help improve patient safety and lower health care costs. A possible pharmacological option to reduce surgical blood loss in total joint arthroplasty is the use of tranexamic acid. Abundant literature has shown that intravenous and/or topical administration of tranexamic acid is effective in reducing blood loss and blood transfusions, with no increased risk of venous thromboembolic events or other complications. Keywords: tranexamic acid, total hip arthroplasty, total knee arthroplasty, antifibrinolytic, blood transfusion, blood loss