Subgroup Analysis of Topical Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Arthroplasty

Abstract

Evidence continues to accumulate for the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) use in primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA). An essential question that remains is to determine which specific subgroups of patients undergoing TKA will benefit from TXA use and if surgeons should be more selective in its administration. We performed a retrospective cohort study involving 187 TKA patients who received intraarticular (“topical”) TXA, and compared these to 168 historical controls who did not receive TXA. These patients were then subdivided into groups based on gender, age, BMI, and preoperative hemoglobin for analysis. All patients, despite their demographics, saw an improvement in primary outcome measures without a detectable increase in complications. Based on these data, there are no restrictions on the use of TXA. Obese patients, females, and those over 65 years of age undergoing total knee arthroplasty may benefit from TXA most consistently.