Tranexamic acid for the Latarjet procedure: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Pharmacology
• Patient Outcomes

Background:

• Tranexamic acid (TXA) is widely used in orthopedic surgery to minimize bleeding and transfusion needs.
• The Latarjet procedure is a surgical intervention for anterior shoulder instability.
• Postoperative swelling, pain, and opioid consumption are common concerns following this procedure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing postoperative swelling, hematoma, pain, and opioid use after the Latarjet procedure.
• To assess the impact of TXA on perioperative blood loss in patients undergoing Latarjet surgery.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial involving 100 patients undergoing open Latarjet surgery.
• Patients received either 1 g of tranexamic acid (TXA) or a placebo intravenously before surgery.
• Outcomes included intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, swelling/hematoma, VAS pain scores, and opioid consumption.

Main Results:

• TXA significantly decreased postoperative blood loss (29.6 vs. 64.9 mL) and the incidence of painful swelling (4% vs. 32%).
• Patients receiving TXA reported significantly lower pain scores (VAS 1.7 vs. 3.0) and reduced opioid use (9.4 vs. 22 mg).
• No significant difference in intraoperative blood loss was observed between groups.

Conclusions:

• Tranexamic acid (TXA) effectively reduces postoperative complications, including blood loss, swelling, and pain, following the Latarjet procedure.
• TXA administration leads to decreased reliance on opioids for pain management in the early postoperative period.
• The findings support the use of TXA to enhance recovery and patient comfort after Latarjet surgery.