Incidence of Thromboembolic Events in Oncology Patients Receiving Intraoperative Tranexamic Acid During Orthopedic Surgery: A Retrospective Review at a Comprehensive Cancer Center

A A Pract. 2020 Jan 15;14(2):63-66. doi: 10.1213/XAA.0000000000001129.

Abstract

Despite an abundance of evidence, routine perioperative antifibrinolytics have been avoided in oncology patients due to concern of thrombosis when given to patients with a preexisting hypercoagulable state. We present a retrospective review of 104 patients with an oncologic diagnosis who received intraoperative tranexamic acid during orthopedic surgery. Overall, complication rates were low, including deep vein thrombosis (1.0%), pulmonary embolism (4.8%), stroke (0%), and myocardial infarction (0%). This preliminary evidence shows that antifibrinolytics such as tranexamic acid may be considered perioperatively in oncology patients without increased risk of thromboembolic events; however, further prospective trials are encouraged.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antifibrinolytic Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Antifibrinolytic Agents / adverse effects
  • Blood Loss, Surgical / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Incidence
  • Intraoperative Care
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Orthopedic Procedures / adverse effects
  • Thromboembolism / epidemiology*
  • Tranexamic Acid / administration & dosage*
  • Tranexamic Acid / adverse effects
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antifibrinolytic Agents
  • Tranexamic Acid