Tranexamic acid for reducing blood transfusions in arthroplasty interventions: a cost-effective practice

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Blood loss and transfusions are common complications in arthroplasty.
• Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic agent used to reduce bleeding.
• Evaluating TXA's efficacy and cost-effectiveness in arthroplasty is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of tranexamic acid (TXA) on blood transfusion rates in patients undergoing joint arthroplasty.
• To conduct a cost-benefit analysis of TXA administration in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 100 patients not receiving TXA and 98 patients receiving TXA during arthroplasty.
• Blood transfusion rates were the primary outcome measure.
• Logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors for transfusion, and a cost-benefit analysis was performed.

Main Results:

• TXA administration was significantly associated with a reduced risk of transfusion (40.8% vs. 75%).
• A 45.6% reduction in transfusion rates and a 26% decrease in the mean number of blood units transfused were observed with TXA.
• TXA administration resulted in a mean saving of €138 per patient and lower post-operative Hb reduction.

Conclusions:

• Tranexamic acid (TXA) administration effectively reduces the need for blood transfusions in patients undergoing arthroplasty.
• TXA is a cost-effective intervention for the National Health System in the context of arthroplasty.
• TXA improves patient outcomes by minimizing blood loss and transfusion requirements.