Tranexamic Acid in Shoulder and Knee Arthroscopy

The role of tranexamic acid (TXA) in orthopaedic surgery is expanding. It has been shown to decreased blood loss in orthopaedic trauma, total joint arthroplasty, and spine surgery. Although significant blood loss with arthroscopic surgery is rare, the use of TXA in these procedures has been advocated to help with intraoperative visualization and decreased postoperative swelling and hemarthrosis. TXA in shoulder arthroscopy may improve visual clarity, decrease the amount of fluid used during arthroscopy, and decrease postoperative pain. Although several studies have shown TXA in shoulder and knee arthroscopy may decrease early pain, swelling, and hemarthrosis, others have shown no difference in short- or long-term outcomes when compared with placebo. Although there is a low reported rate of complications after TXA use in shoulder and knee arthroscopy, TXA may be chondrotoxic in high concentrations. Further investigation is warranted, but TXA may have some early benefits in arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries. (Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances 33(3):131-134, 2024).