Issn Print: 0265-0215

Publication Date: 2006/06/01


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The use of tranexamic acid reduces transfusion requirements and efficacy of postoperative re-infusion drains in total knee arthroplasty: A-306

J. C. Álvarez; E. Vela; I. Ramos; I. González; S. Pacreu; L. G. Aguilera; X. Santiveri

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Background and Goal of Study: Total knee replacement surgery frequently requires allogenic and/or autologous transfusion. Potentially useful strategies to reduce bleeding and transfusions include perioperative tranexamic acid administration and re-infusion of postoperative drained blood (1)(2). The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of TA on transfusion requirements and the efficacy of postoperative re-infusion devices.
Materials and Methods: In a double blind prospective study patients scheduled for TKA were randomly assigned into two groups. In the group TA, TA (10 mg/kg ev bolus followed by 1 mg/kg/h perfusion) was administered, while in the control group, saline was given matching the protocol. Blood was reinfused if the amount drained was greater than 300 ml and the patient hemoglobin was below 13gr/dl. Blood drained, calculated blood loss, autologous and allogenic transfusion and percentage of patients re-infused were evaluated. T-test was used for quantitative variables and Chi-square test for qualitative variables.
Results and Discussions: 81 patients were included (TA group: 38, control group: 43). Demographics, preoperative hemoglobin, coagulation parameters, fluid administration, tourniquet and surgery duration were similar between groups. Results expressed as mean (SD) are summarized below. *P < 0.05.
Conclusions: Perioperative TA administration reduces drained blood loss, postoperative calculated bleeding, transfusion requirements and it question the usefulness of the postoperative re-infusion drains.
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