Tranexamic Acid Use in Foot and Ankle Surgery

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Anesthesiology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) in foot and ankle surgery requires further investigation.
• Understanding TXA's safety and outcomes is crucial for surgical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and outcomes of intravenous TXA in foot and ankle procedures.
• To assess the medical complication profile associated with TXA use in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study with retrospective review of 241 patients undergoing foot and ankle surgery.
• Administration of 1 gram of intravenous TXA prior to incision.
• Comprehensive evaluation of blood loss, wound complications, infections, hematoma, medical complications, and 30-day readmissions.

Main Results:

• Minimal intraoperative blood loss (<20 mL) was observed.
• Low rates of complications including superficial cellulitis (0.4%), deep infection (0.4%), delayed wound healing (1.6%), DVT (0.4%), and PE (0.8%).
• No hematomas, adverse drug reactions, or 30-day hospital readmissions were recorded.

Conclusions:

• Intravenous TXA in foot and ankle surgery is associated with a low risk of complications and minimal side effects.
• TXA may offer benefits, especially for high-risk patients including those with diabetes, trauma, or compromised immunity.