Need For Postoperative Blood Transfusion Research Articles

Identification of Data-Driven Preoperative Hemoglobin Strata That Predict the Likelihood of Blood Transfusion and the Risk of Major Complications and Prosthetic Joint Infection After Total Hip Arthroplasty.

Preoperative anemia is an independent risk factor of complications after primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). Currently used hemoglobin thresholds are not developed for risk stratification of arthroplasty patients and do not provide surgery-specific information on postoperative complication risk. Thus, we aimed to calculate THA-specific preoperative hemoglobin strata that observe the likelihood of 90-day blood transfusion and determine whether these strata are associated with increased risk of 90-day complications and 2-year prosthetic joint infection (PJI). A retrospective cohort analysis identified 56,101 patients who underwent primary THA from 2013 to 2022. Using the lowest hemoglobin value for each patient one month before THA, stratum-specific likelihood ratio (SSLR) analysis calculated sex-based hemoglobin strata associated with the likelihood of 90-day postoperative blood transfusion. Propensity score matching was performed. Incidence rates and risk of 90-day major complications and 2-year PJI were observed for each identified preoperative hemoglobin stratum. SSLR analysis identified five male (strata, likelihood ratio [<10.4 g/dL, 12.5; 10.5 to 11.4 g/dL, 8.0; 11.5 to 12.4 g/dL, 2.4; 12.5 to 13.4 g/dL, 1.3; 13.5 to 13.9 g/dL, 0.5]) and five female (<8.9 g/dL, 10.7; 9.0 to 10.9 g/dL, 4.0; 11.0 to 11.4 g/dL, 2.0; 12.0 to 12.9 g/dL, 1.0; 13.0 to 13.4 g/dL, 0.6) preoperative hemoglobin strata associated with varying likelihoods of 90-day blood transfusion after THA. After matching in both male and female cohorts, as the calculated preoperative hemoglobin strata decreased, the relative risk of overall 90-day major complications and 2-year PJI increased incrementally (all P < 0.05). SSLR analysis established THA-specific sex-based preoperative hemoglobin strata that observe the likelihood of 90-day blood transfusion and predict the risk of 90-day medical complications and 2-year PJI. These strata are a first of their kind in THA research. While preoperatively optimizing patients, we recommend using these hemoglobin thresholds to help guide decisions on presurgery anemia optimization and to reduce the need for postoperative blood transfusion. Level III.

Robotic-assisted versus laparoscopic splenectomy in children: a costeffectiveness study.

Laparoscopic elective splenectomy is considered as a safe surgical treatment of spleen non-traumatic blood disorders. However, robotic assisted splenectomy is becoming a promising alternative, although there are scarce studies in pediatric patients. Our aim is to compare the effectiveness and associated costs of both procedures in children. A single-institution retrospective study was performed among consecutive children undergoing splenectomy between 2004 and 2021, who were divided according to the surgical approach: LAS group (laparoscopic splenectomy) and RAS group (robotic assisted splenectomy). Demographics, clinical features, intraoperative blood loss, surgery time, length of hospital stay (LOS), postoperative complications, need for postoperative blood transfusion, readmission rate and economic data were compared. A total of 84 patients were included (23 LAS group; 61 RAS group), without demographic or clinical differences between them. RAS patients presented lower intraoperative blood loss (42 ± 15 vs. 158 ± 39ml; p < 0.021) and shorter surgery time (135 ± 39 vs. 182 ± 68min; p = 0.043), with no differences in median LOS (3days in both groups). No intraoperative complications or conversion was reported. Five postoperative complications were observed: 4 in LAS patients (17.4%) versus only one in RAS (1.6%; p = 0.021). One reintervention was required in LAS group due to hemoperitoneum 12h after splenectomy. RAS patients had lower postoperative blood transfusion requirements (1.6% vs. 13.0%; p = 0.025) and lower readmission rate (3.3 vs. 17.4%; p = 0.042). No differences were observed when comparing the median economic costs ($25,645 LAS vs. $28,135 RAS; p = 0.215). Robotic assisted splenectomy may be considered as a safe and feasible option in children compared to the traditional laparoscopic approach. Level of evidence: III.

COMPARISON OF INTRAVENOUS VERSUS TOPICAL TRANEXAMIC ACID IN BLOOD LOSS REDUCTION IN BILATERAL TOTAL KNEE ARTHROPLASTY

AbstractIntroductionMultiple strategies, used either in isolation or combination, are available to reduce the need for post-operative blood transfusion in joint replacements. Amongst them, the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been rising and this study was conducted to compare the efficacy of topical and intravenous TXA in bilateral total knee replacement patients.Materials and methodsRandomised prospective study with 120 patients (male: female: 25:95) undergoing bilateral TKA. Patients were divided into two groups A and B after computer randomization, who received intravenous or topical (intra-articular) TXA respectively.ResultsThe average haemoglobin loss in intravenous group was 90.2379 g/L as compared to 39.137 g/L in topical group (p &lt; 0.005). Moreover, there was reduction in blood loss in topical (330.1602 ml) as compared to intravenous group (764.9622 ml). The blood transfusion rate was more for the intravenous group (average 1.73 units) than for the topical group (average 0.75, unit). WOMAC score at 6 weeks in the intravenous group was 12.50, and in the topical group was 7.23 (p value &lt; 0.001).ConclusionTopical TXA is better than intravenous TXA for reduction of blood loss, which also reduces the need for blood transfusion in bilateral TKA patients.

Access to the upper third of the face: a literary review of indications, techniques, and intercurrences

Due to its location, anatomy, and projection in the upper third of the face, the frontal bone is frequently affected by trauma of different intensities that result in fractures. Access to the upper third of the face for the correct reduction and stabilization of the trauma requires an extensive approach. The main alternatives for correct exposure are coronal and transcutaneous incisions. The coronal incision is the incision of choice, as it allows us to adequately approach important structures related to fractures of the frontal bone. The transcutaneous incisions, these incisions comprise the region of the eyebrow, upper eyelid, eyebrow, and gull-wing incision and, when present, lacerations in the soft tissue of the trauma itself can be used as access to the fractures. The present work aimed to describe, through a literature review, the accesses to the upper third of the face, as well as to report the techniques and intercurrences. Even though it is the main choice for coronal access, it can cause alopecia, loss of sensitivity, compromised aesthetics, muscle depression, possible need for postoperative blood transfusion, facial nerve deficit, and supratrochlear deficit, among others. The alternatives are transcutaneous incisions, these incisions include the region of the eyebrow, upper eyelid, eyebrow, and gull-wing incision and, when present, lacerations in the soft tissue of the trauma itself can be used as access to the fractures. It was concluded that although coronal access is the main choice, the choice of incision depends on the location of the fracture, the presence of laceration, its extension, its relationship with other fractures, and surgeon preference, in addition to aesthetic factors.

Barbed versus conventional suture in laparoscopic myomectomy: A randomized controlled study.

To compare the surgical and clinical results of traditional absorbable polyglactin 910 and barbed sutures in laparoscopic myomectomy. This single-center randomized study included 75 women who underwent laparoscopic myomectomy. The uterine wall defects were closed with a continuous conventional absorbable polyglactin 910 suture (Vicryl; Ethicon, Somerville, NJ, USA) in 41 women and with a unidirectional barbed suture (V-Loc 180; Covidien, Mansfield, MA, USA) in 34 women. The time required to suture the uterine wall defect was lower in the V-Loc group than in the Vicryl group (p=0.007). However, no significant difference was observed in the operative time between the two study groups. The intraoperative blood loss and need for postoperative blood transfusion were significantly lower in the barbed group than in the Vicryl group (p=0.018 and p=0.048, respectively). In laparoscopic myomectomy cases, the unidirectional barbed suture is more effective than the conventional absorbable suture. Barbed sutures facilitate the suturing process and reduce the time required to suture the uterine wall defect, blood loss, and the need for postoperative blood transfusion.

Comparison of valvuloplasty and replacement for surgical treatment of tricuspid infective endocarditis

BackgroundOwing to the increase in both intravenous drug injections and intracardiac and vascular interventional treatments among drug users, the incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) involving the tricuspid valve, which sits between the two right heart chambers, has gradually increased. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of different surgical procedures for tricuspid infective endocarditis (TIE).MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed fifty-six patients who underwent tricuspid valve surgery at our hospital from January 2006 to August 2019. All patients were diagnosed with TIE and indicated a need for surgery. Perioperative and follow-up data were collected to summarize and analyze the clinical outcomes of different surgical approaches, including tricuspid valvuloplasty (TVP) and tricuspid valve replacement (TVR) for TIE.ResultsCardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross-clamp (ACC) time, postoperative mechanical ventilation time, and intensive care unit (ICU) stay time were shorter in the TVP group than in the TVR group. Additionally, the incidence of red blood cell transfusion and postoperative complications was lower in the TVP group than in the TVR group. The postoperative 30-day mortality rates were similar between both the groups. Fifty-two patients were followed up for an average of 5.50 ± 3.79 years. The postoperative 3-, 5-, and 7-year survival rates were 100%, 100%, and 95.5% in the TVP group and 96.7%, 96.7%, and 96.7% in the TVR group, respectively. The 5-year and 10-year reoperation rates were 0% and 0% in the TVP group and 6.7% and 20% in the TVR group, respectively.ConclusionBoth TVR and TVP for TIE significantly improved the functional status of the heart with satisfactory efficacy. TVP was found to be superior to TVR in reducing the need for postoperative blood transfusions, reducing the risk of postoperative complications, and reducing the need for long-term reoperations.

Introduction of laparoscopic nephrectomy for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease as the standard procedure

PurposeAutosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is a common hereditary disorder and accounts for 5–10% of all cases of kidney failure. 50% of ADPKD patients reach kidney failure by the age of 58 years requiring dialysis or transplantation. Nephrectomy is performed in up to 20% of patients due to compressive symptoms, renal-related complications or in preparation for kidney transplantation. However, due to the large kidney size in ADPKD, nephrectomy can come with a considerable burden. Here we evaluate our institution’s experience of laparoscopic nephrectomy (LN) as an alternative to open nephrectomy (ON) for ADPKD patients.Materials and methodsWe report the results of the first 12 consecutive LN for ADPKD from August 2020 to August 2021 in our institution. These results were compared with the 12 most recent performed ON for ADPKD at the same institution (09/2017 to 07/2020). Intra- and postoperative parameters were collected and analyzed. Health related quality of life (HRQoL) was assessed using the SF36 questionnaire.ResultsAge, sex, and median preoperative kidney volumes were not significantly different between the two analyzed groups. Intraoperative estimated blood loss was significantly less in the laparoscopic group (33 ml (0–200 ml)) in comparison to the open group (186 ml (0–800 ml)) and postoperative need for blood transfusion was significantly reduced in the laparoscopic group (p = 0.0462). Operative time was significantly longer if LN was performed (158 min (85–227 min)) compared to the open procedure (107 min (56–174 min)) (p = 0.0079). In both groups one postoperative complication Clavien Dindo ≥ 3 occurred with the need of revision surgery. SF36 HRQol questionnaire revealed excellent postoperative quality of life after LN.ConclusionLN in ADPKD patients is a safe and effective operative procedure independent of kidney size with excellent postoperative outcomes and benefits of minimally invasive surgery. Compared with the open procedure patients profit from significantly less need for transfusion with comparable postoperative complication rates. However significant longer operation times need to be taken in account.

Efficacy of a Combined Intramedullary, Periarticular Injection, and Intraarticular Tranexamic Acid Application on Postoperative Bleeding in Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Retrospective Case-Matched Study.

Topical tranexamic acid (TXA) has been widely used to reduce postoperative blood loss following total knee replacement (TKA). This study aimed to evaluate the effect of combined intramedullary, periarticular injection, and intraarticular TXA application in patients who underwent TKA as compared to those who did not. This was a retrospective case-matched study of 111 patients. We evaluated the transfusion rate and postoperative drainage of 56 patients who underwent TKA using combined topical tranexamic acid application (directly pushed into the femoral intramedullary canal and tibia base, with periarticular soft tissue injection and injected into the knee cavity via a drain tube) and the control group of 55 patients. In the control and TXA groups, 7.14% and 1.81% of the patients received blood transfusions, respectively (p=0.176). The closed-suction drainage output at 0-8 h and total drainage output were significantly lower in the TXA group than those in the control group (p < 0.001). Application of topical TXA with the combined method (intramedullary, periarticular injection, and intraarticular) in TKA decreases postoperative suction drainage and may reduce the need for postoperative blood transfusion.

Factors affecting the need of postoperative blood transfusion in elderly patients with intertrochanteric hip fracture.

We investigated the risk factors that increased the frequency of blood transfusions in elderly patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures to determine blood transfusion risk before surgery and to take selective precautionary measures in the group at high risk for transfusion to ensure safe surgery. We retrospectively reviewed the electronic medical records of 203 patients who underwent surgical fixation of intertrochanteric hip fractures from January 2015 to December 2020. We hypothesized that patient sex, age, body mass index, preoperative hemoglobin, preoperative platelet count, glomerular filtration rate (GFR), preoperative albumin level, American Society of Anesthesiologist score, intraoperative blood loss, duration of surgery, method of anesthesia, and time from injury to surgery would affect the need for blood transfusion. Student's t-test, Chi-squared test, and the one-way analysis of variance test were used to determine whether differences between variables in the transfusion and non-transfusion groups were significant. Unstable fractures (P = 0.002), general anesthesia (P = 0.028), lower preoperative hemoglobin levels (P < 0.001), and lower GFRs (P < 0.001) were identified as related to blood transfusions in univariate analysis. In multivariate logistic analysis, the need for allogeneic blood transfusion in unstable fractures was approximately 2.949 times higher than in stable fractures (P = 0.009). The risk in general anesthesia patients was about 2.953 times higher than in spinal anesthesia patients (P = 0.007). In addition, the need for allogeneic blood transfusion increased by about 1.293 times as preoperative hemoglobin levels decreased by 1 g/dL (P = 0.017) and increased by about 1.017 times as the GFR decreased by 1 mL/min/1.7m2 (P = 0.006). Low preoperative hemoglobin levels, low GFRs, general anesthesia, and unstable fractures in elderly patients with intertrochanteric hip fractures increased the risk of blood transfusion.

A Comparative Study of Blood Loss With and Without Infusion of Tranexamic Acid in Total Knee Replacement

Introduction: Total knee replacement (TKR) is associated with significant blood loss in intra- and postoperative periods. This trial was designed to determine the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in the reduction of perioperative blood loss and the need for blood transfusion in patients undergoing primary TKR.Materials and methods: This study was performed at a tertiary care institute with 30 cases of primary unilateral TKR. The patients were randomly divided into two groups comprising 15 patients each. Group A comprised patients who received TXA by intravenous route and locally. Group B served as control, which comprised patients who had not received TXA. Patients were assessed in terms of intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, reduction in haemoglobin, the requirement of blood transfusion, and any untoward effects of TXA at 24 and 72 hours after surgery.Results: In group A, the mean number of swabs used intraoperatively was 2.3 ± 0.5 swabs while in group B, the mean number was 4.3 ± 0.7 swabs (p = 0.0000). The mean drop in the postoperative haemoglobin concentration in group A was 0.6 gm/dl (24 hours) and 1.3 gm/dl (72 hours), with a mean postoperative drain collection of 247.3 ± 50.6 ml (24 hours) and 316.7 ± 55.6 ml (72 hours). In comparison, the mean drop in the postoperative haemoglobin in group B was 1.5 gm/dl (24 hours) and 2.3 gm/dl (72 hours), with a mean drain collection of 474 ± 30.7 ml (24 hours) and 453.3 ± 37.7 ml (72 hours) (p < 0.001). In group A, significantly fewer patients (four) required blood transfusion while 13 patients required blood transfusion in group B (p = 0.0004).Conclusion: The data from this study conclude that the use of TXA in TKR significantly reduces perioperative blood loss and the need for postoperative blood transfusion without significantly altering the liver and renal functions and coagulation profile of patients.

Evaluation of Blood Loss in Conventional vs MAKOplasty Total Knee Arthroplasty.

BackgroundPrimary total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been historically associated with considerable blood loss. Allogenic transfusions, the standard of care for blood loss following TKA, carry inherent risks. With the expanding use of robotic technology in TKA, one theoretical advantage is decreased blood loss and postoperative blood transfusions requirements. The purpose of this study was to compare postoperative hemoglobin levels and the percentage of patients requiring a transfusion of allogenic packed red blood cells after conventional TKA (CTKA) vs robot-assisted TKA (RATKA).MethodsThis is a retrospective review of 486 consecutive patients undergoing either CTKA or RATKA between October 30, 2018, and June 25, 2020, by a single fellowship-trained arthroplasty surgeon. Mako SmartRobotics (Stryker, Kalamazoo, MI) was used for RATKA cases. Primary outcomes included preoperative vs postoperative hemoglobin values and postoperative blood transfusion rates between the 2 groups.ResultsThe mean hemoglobin on postoperative day 1 was 10.7 gm/dl (±1.3) in the CTKA group and 10.9 gm/dl (±1.3) in the RATKA group, P = .24. The largest decline in hemoglobin from preoperative to within 2 days postoperatively was 3.1 gm/dl (±1.1) in the CTKA group and 3.1 gm/dl (±1.1) in the RATKA group, P = .92. The percentage of patients requiring a blood transfusion was 1.1% in the CTKA group and 1.3% in the RATKA group, P = .79.ConclusionsRATKA and CTKA groups did not have significant differences in postoperative hemoglobin changes or the need for postoperative blood transfusions.

Topical hemostatic application on staple line in laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy: a single-surgeon experience.

Laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) is a common bariatric procedure with low complication rates. Several hemostatic agents have been used to reduce staple line bleeding, but its impact is unclear. The primary endpoint of this study was to compare the early (30-day) complications comparing oxidized regenerated cellulose (ORC) and fibrin sealant (FS) application on the staple line. The secondary endpoints were to compare the need for postoperative blood transfusion, postoperative blood work values of hemoglobin (Hb), white blood cell (WBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), drain output volume and hospital length of stay (LOS). A retrospective analysis of all patients who underwent LSG between January and October 2021 was performed. Subjects were divided into two groups according to the use of ORC versus FS on the staple line. Early postoperative complications, Hb level, WBC count, and drain output volume were compared between groups. A total number of 77 patients were included: 27 in the ORC-group and 50 in the FS-group. No major complication was recorded in both groups. There was no significant difference in the need for blood transfusion, Hb value, and drain output volume on postoperative day (POD) 1 and 2. There was a significantly higher WBC count in the ORC-group on POD 1 and 2. There was no difference in hospital LOS between the groups. The use of FS and ORC was associated with a comparable low rate of bleeding. ORC causes an increased WBC count postoperatively, but this showed no clinical relevance.

Efficacy and Safety of Locally Injected Tranexamic Acid in Hip Fracture Patients: A Retrospective Review.

To determine whether locally injected tranexamic acid (TXA) used in the surgical treatment of fragility hip fractures can lower transfusion rates without increasing the risk of complications. Retrospective comparative cohort. Tertiary referral orthopaedic specialty hospital, Level I trauma center. A total of 490 patients (252 patients received TXA) 50 years of age and older who underwent surgery for a low-energy fragility fracture of the proximal femur between March 2018 and February 2020 were included in this study. Use of locally injected TXA at the time of wound closure. The main outcomes of this study were the number of patients requiring postoperative blood transfusions, incidences of venous thromboembolism, and surgical site infections. A statistically significant difference was noted in the frequency of transfusion between patients who received TXA compared with those who did not receive TXA (33% vs. 43%, respectively) (P = 0.034). There were no significant differences in venous thromboembolism incidence (0.4% vs. 0.8% TXA vs. No TXA) (P = 0.526) or infections (0.4% vs. 0.4% TXA vs. No TXA) (P = 0.965). Regression analysis indicated that the use of TXA reduced the need for postoperative blood transfusion by 31% (odds ratio: 0.688, 95% CI: 0.477-0.993, P = 0.045). Locally injected TXA significantly reduced the need for postoperative transfusion in the surgical treatment of fragility hip fractures. In addition, there was no increased risk of complications in those receiving TXA versus those who did not. Locally injected TXA seems to be both a safe and effective way to reduce postoperative blood transfusions in patients with fragility hip fractures. Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Preoperative Uterine Artery Embolization in Women Undergoing Uterus-Preserving Myomectomy for Extensive Fibroid Disease: A Retrospective Analysis

Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine if a long versus short interval between preoperative uterine artery embolization (PUAE) and subsequent myomectomy impact perioperative blood loss and the complication rate in cases of enlarged multi-fibroid uterus. Design: In cases of an enlarged multi-fibroid uterus, operative myomectomy can lead to heavy blood loss and consequently increases the risk for transfusion and hysterectomy. PUAE can possibly contribute to a reduction of these risks. Our study was designed to determine if a long versus short interval between PUAE and subsequent surgery impacts perioperative blood loss and complication rate. Participants and Methods: PUAE was performed 24 h before the planned myoma enucleation in 21 patients between January 2011 and March 2016 (group 1) or 19 days before the operation in 23 patients from March 2016 to May 2018 (group 2). A comparison was made to a historical sample of 57 patients with large myomas (>10 cm) without PUAE (group 3). Perioperative blood loss, need for postoperative blood transfusion, and postoperative complications were recorded. Subjective improvement of myoma-related symptoms was assessed for each group by a questionnaire. Results: PUAE was carried out successfully without complications in all patients. Conversion to hysterectomy was not needed in any of the PUAE patients but was necessary in one of the control patients. In the three groups’ comparison, there was a significant lower risk for high blood loss (≥500 mL) in group 1 and a lower but not significant lower risk in group 2 compared to group 3 without an embolization preoperatively. Also, a significant lower risk for postoperative blood transfusion for group 1 (OR 0.02; 0.001–0.328; p = 0.01) and 2 (OR 0.02; 0.001–0.277; p = 0.01) compared to group 3 was observed. The postoperative complication risk was lower in group 2 (model 1: OR 0.12; 0.016–0.848; p = 0.03; model 2 OR 0.07; 0.009–0.588; p = 0.01) compared to group 3. In the context of the postoperative questionnaire, 10 of 11 patients in group 1, 12 of 12 patients in group 2, and 31 of 36 patients from the control group reported an improvement of their complaints. Conclusion: PUAE is beneficial for uterus-preserving removal of myomas from patients with a substantially enlarged uterus. There is a significant reduction of high blood loss (≥500 mL), need for postoperative blood transfusion, and postoperative complications in patients with extensive fibroid disease after PUAE compared to no intervention before myoma enucleation.

Post-operative clinical outcomes and complications of posterior versus lateral approach for primary total hip arthroplasty: A retrospective cohort study

Objectives: Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is considered one of the therapeutic procedures frequently performed in orthopedic surgery. It is believed that the surgical approach could influence the clinical outcomes following THA. We performed a retrospective cohort study to compare the postoperative clinical outcomes and complications between the posterior approach (PA) and the lateral approach (LA) for primary THA. Methods: We enrolled patients who underwent primary THA through PA or LA. We sought to evaluate the postoperative complications including the need for intra- or postoperative blood transfusion, dislocation rate, and venous thromboembolism events, and the clinical outcomes, including length of hospital stay, operative time, and perioperative blood loss. Results: A total of 211 patients (71 patients in PA vs. 140 patients in LA) were deemed eligible to be included in this study. There was no significant difference between PA and LA in post-operative clinical outcomes concerning operative time, and perioperative blood loss except for the length of hospital stay (PA median = 6.0 days vs. LA median = 9.0 days; P &lt; 0.001) patients. After adjustment for the potential confounders, the length of hospital stay was found to be similar between the two groups (P = 0.06). Similarly, no difference was found between PA and LA in post-operative complications concerning the need for intra-operative blood transfusion, dislocation rate, and venous thromboembolism events except for the need for postoperative blood transfusion (RR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.16–2.87), which continued to be significantly higher in PA even after adjustment for the potential confounders (P ≤ 0.01). Conclusion: PA and LA herald similar outcomes for patients undergoing primary THA concerning the postoperative clinical outcomes and complications except for the need for post-operative blood transfusion.

Tranexamic Acid and Intraoperative and Postoperative Accumulative Bleeding in Elective Degenerative Spine Surgery.

PurposeSpinal surgeries are often associated with a high incidence of perioperative blood loss, which poses several complications. Much current research focuses on the importance of antifibrinolytic drugs during spinal surgeries to reduce blood loss, which can also reduce the risk of the need for blood transfusions. We evaluated the effects of prophylactic, low-dose tranexamic acid (TXA) in spinal fusion surgeries on blood loss, blood transfusions, and associated complications.Materials and MethodsTXA was administered to 90 patients at a constant infusion rate of 10 mg/kg for 20 minutes after anesthesia induction, followed by a maintenance dose of 1 mg/kg/h until the end of the operation. An additional 91 patients were included as controls.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the study groups in terms of intraoperative blood loss, which was 500 mL for both groups (p>0.999). Also, intraoperative blood transfusion requirements were similar between both groups (p=0.330). Mean blood transfusion amounts were 125±35 mL for patients in the TXA group and 85±25 mL in the control group. However, there was a significant reduction in postoperative blood transfusion (p=0.003) in the TXA group. Only three cases in the TXA group required blood transfusion, while 15 cases in the control group did.ConclusionWe confirmed that low dose TXA has no effect on intraoperative blood loss volume or blood transfusion requirements and that it can significantly reduce the need for postoperative blood transfusions.

P119. Does the use of IV tranexamic acid impact postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion?

<h3>BACKGROUND CONTEXT</h3> Spinal surgery is often complicated by significant blood loss which can lead to increased patient morbidity and mortality. Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a synthetic antifibrinolytic agent that has shown promise in decreasing blood loss as well as need for postoperative blood transfusion when given during surgery. <h3>PURPOSE</h3> Recent studies have begun to report on the benefits of TXA when given perioperatively during spinal surgery2. Few studies, however, have looked at the effects of TXA in patients undergoing anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF). In this study we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of TXA in reducing intraoperative blood loss in a cohort of ACDF patients. <h3>STUDY DESIGN/SETTING</h3> Retrospective, single-surgeon study at academic medical center. <h3>PATIENT SAMPLE</h3> All patients who underwent primary ACDF during this time either with or without the augment of TXA were included. <h3>OUTCOME MEASURES</h3> The mean differences in intraoperative blood loss as well as the change from pre to post-surgical hemoglobin and hematocrit, measured at presurgical testing 1 week prior to surgery and on postop day 1 were analyzed in TXA-treated patients compared to non-TXA-treated patients. Additionally, the number of patients requiring postoperative drain and average drain output on postoperative day #1 were measured. Mean length of stay in between groups was also analyzed. This study was subject to IRB approval. <h3>METHODS</h3> Medical records for all patients who underwent primary ACDF with a single surgeon at a tertiary center over a 3-year period from September 2016-October 2019 were evaluated retrospectively. <h3>RESULTS</h3> A total of 83 patients underwent primary ACDF during the study period. Three additional patients who underwent revision of ACDF were excluded for the purposes of this study. Of the 83 patients who underwent primary ACDF, 14 received TXA perioperatively while 69 did not receive TXA. Preoperative diagnoses included spinal stenosis, disc herniation, and spondylolisthesis. Distribution of diagnoses was equal among study groups. Patient demographics and comorbidities including age, BMI, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and smoking status were evaluated and there were no significant differences between groups. Patients who received TXA had significantly lower mean operative blood loss than the non-TXA patients (41.1mL vs 77.4mL p<.05). There was, however, no significant difference in postoperative drop in hemoglobin (0.7 vs 1.0, p=.332) or hematocrit (0.0, 1.8, p=.392) between the two groups. A total of 49 patients in the non-TXA group (71%) required drain placement while 6 patients in the TXA group (43%) had a drain placed (p=.062). There was a trend towards decreased drain output on postop day 1 in the TXA group compared to the non-TXA group (32.3mL vs 40.8mL, p=.056), however it was not significant. There was also no significant difference in average length of stay between TXA and non-TXA patients (3.2 vs 3.6 days, p=.564). <h3>CONCLUSIONS</h3> TXA has been reported as a useful perioperative tool to decrease bleeding associated with spinal surgery. We found in our patients who underwent ACDF that intraoperative use of IV TXA led to a significant decrease in intraoperative blood loss, however, there was no difference in the change in pre and postoperative hemoglobin and hematocrit between ACDF patients who received TXA and those who did not. There was also no difference in mean postoperative length-of-stay between the TXA and non-TXA groups. Additionally, while not significant, there was a trend towards TXA patients being less likely to require a drain postoperatively (p=.062) and those requiring a drain having less output in the early postoperative period (p=.056). While use of TXA perioperatively for ACDF was shown in this study to decrease operative blood loss, this change was not reflected in surgical hemoglobin change or overall length of stay. Further analysis of the benefits of TXA on bleeding in ACDF patients is warranted. <h3>FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS</h3> This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

The role of Tranexamic acid in reducing the need for intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion in patients undergoing arthroplasty for osteoarthritis

Intraoperative blood loss and postoperative anaemia in patients undergoing arthroplasty of the hip and knee increase patient's morbidity and mortality. This increases the need for postoperative transfusion of blood products. Though mechanical methods like using tourniquet reduce the intraoperative blood loss, postoperative loss and resulting anaemia cannot be prevented. Our aim was to establish that the use of low dose tranexamic acid Intravenously and Topically in these patients reduce the total blood loss in these patients and hence the need for postoperative blood transfusion and associated complications of anaemia. Our study conducted in SRIHER between 2018-2020 prospectively, included an analysis of 84 patient's undergoing arthroplasty of the hip and knee. All patients included were above 55 years undergoing arthroplasty for hip and knee for osteoarthritis. Patients with h/o stroke, cardiac stents and chronic liver and renal diseases were excluded. Intravenous Tranexamic acid 1gm was given to all patients an hour before surgery as an infusion in normal saline along with tranexamic acid 500mg injected through the drain after closure. The average blood loss was 480ml intraoperatively and the average drain volume was 140ml. Only 14 patients (16.6%) had postoperative anaemia and required transfusion of allogenic blood. The mean postoperative haemoglobin in these patients was 12.2gm/dl. Our study indicates that low dose intravenous and topical Tranexamic acid significantly reduces the intraoperative and postoperative blood loss and resulting anaemia. This effectively reduces the need for postoperative blood transfusion and associated complications.

The role of Tranexamic acid in reducing the need for intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion in patients undergoing arthroplasty for osteoarthritis

Intraoperative blood loss and postoperative anaemia in patients undergoing arthroplasty of the hip and knee increase patient's morbidity and mortality. This increases the need for postoperative transfusion of blood products. Though mechanical methods like using tourniquet reduce the intraoperative blood loss, postoperative loss and resulting anaemia cannot be prevented. Our aim was to establish that the use of low dose tranexamic acid Intravenously and Topically in these patients reduce the total blood loss in these patients and hence the need for postoperative blood transfusion and associated complications of anaemia. Our study conducted in SRIHER between 2018-2020 prospectively, included an analysis of 84 patient's undergoing arthroplasty of the hip and knee. All patients included were above 55 years undergoing arthroplasty for hip and knee for osteoarthritis. Patients with h/o stroke, cardiac stents and chronic liver and renal diseases were excluded. Intravenous Tranexamic acid 1gm was given to all patients an hour before surgery as an infusion in normal saline along with tranexamic acid 500mg injected through the drain after closure. The average blood loss was 480ml intraoperatively and the average drain volume was 140ml. Only 14 patients (16.6%) had postoperative anaemia and required transfusion of allogenic blood. The mean postoperative haemoglobin in these patients was 12.2gm/dl. Our study indicates that low dose intravenous and topical Tranexamic acid significantly reduces the intraoperative and postoperative blood loss and resulting anaemia. This effectively reduces the need for postoperative blood transfusion and associated complications.

Efficacy of topical versus intravenous tranexamic acid in bilateral total knee arthroplasty

IntroductionMultiple strategies, used either in isolation or combination, are available to reduce the need for post-operative blood transfusion in joint replacements. Amongst them, the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) has been rising and this study was conducted to compare the efficacy of topical and intravenous TXA in bilateral total knee replacement patients. Materials and methodsRandomised prospective study with 120 patients (male: female: 25:95) undergoing bilateral TKA. Patients were divided into two groups A and B after computer randomization, who received intravenous or topical (intra-articular) TXA respectively. ResultsThe average haemoglobin loss in intravenous group was 90.2379 g/L as compared to 39.137 g/L in topical group (p < 0.005).Moreover, there was reduction in blood loss in topical (330.1602 ml) as compared to intravenous group (764.9622 ml). The blood transfusion rate was more for the intravenous group (average 1.73 units) than for the topical group (average 0.75, unit). WOMAC score at 6 weeks in the intravenous group was 12.50, and in the topical group was 7.23 (p value < 0.001). ConclusionTopical TXA is better than intravenous TXA for reduction of blood loss, which also reduces the need for blood transfusion in bilateral TKA patients.