Tranexamic Acid Use During Surgery Associated with Extension of Acute Perioperative Type 1 Myocardial Infarction: A...

A 70-year-old women presented to a regional hospital after a fall, resulting in a periprosthetic femoral fracture. Preoperative echocardiogram was ordered to investigate a cardiac murmur, and unexpectedly, a significant regional wall abnormality was found. Further repeat electrocardiograph and troponin blood biomarker analysis demonstrated the patient had suffered an acute type 1 myocardial infarction after admission to the ward, without exhibiting classical ischemic cardiac symptoms. A multidisciplinary decision was made for the patient to proceed to surgery, and at that time, she received tranexamic acid (TXA). Postoperatively, there was notable echocardiographic extension of the infarction, which required transfer to a tertiary center for management with complex coronary artery stenting. The patient once discharged was followed up by cardiology at the 3-month interval.

The use of TXA in arterial thromboembolic disease requires thorough consideration because it may contribute to further myocardial damage. A patient-specific approach should be adopted with the risk of thrombosis extension being considered.