Does Tranexamic Acid Reduce Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirements Associated With the Periacetabular Osteotomy?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anesthesiology
• Hematology

Background:

• Tranexamic acid (TXA) is effective in reducing surgical blood loss.
• Its impact on periacetabular osteotomy (PAO) blood loss and transfusion requirements is not well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate TXA's effect on blood loss and transfusion use in PAO for acetabular dysplasia.
• To compare thromboembolic event rates in PAO patients with and without TXA.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 100 PAO cases (50 with TXA, 50 without).
• TXA administered intravenously before incision and at wound closure.
• Blood loss calculated using a validated formula; transfusion rates and thromboembolic events recorded.

Main Results:

• Mean blood loss was significantly lower in the TXA group (706 mL vs. 1021 mL; p<0.001).
• Postoperative transfusions were less frequent in the TXA group (30% vs. 52%; p=0.0414).
• No symptomatic deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism occurred in either group.

Conclusions:

• TXA effectively reduces perioperative blood loss and transfusion requirements in PAO.
• TXA appears safe for PAO, with no observed increase in thromboembolic events.
• Further prospective studies are recommended to confirm routine perioperative TXA use in PAO.