Does Pre-Operative Tranexamic Acid Increase the Incidence of Thromboembolism in Primary Lower Limb Arthroplasty?

Introduction: Tranexamic Acid (TA) has been shown to decrease peri-operative bleeding in primary lower limb arthroplasty surgery. There are still concerns with regards to the increased risk of thromboembolic events with the use of TA. The aim of this study was to assess whether the use of pre-operative TA increased the incidence of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE) in Total Hip Replacement (THR) and Total Knee Replacement (TKR). Methods: Patients who underwent primary THR or TKR between August 2007 and August 2009 were identified from the databases of three surgeons within the lower limb arthroplasty unit. A retrospective case notes analysis was performed. DVT was diagnosed on Duplex Ultrasound Scan and PE on CT Pulmonary Angiogram. A positive result was a diagnosis of DVT or PE within 3 months of surgery. Results: 701 patients underwent primary THR and TKR over the 2-year period. 320 patients (189 THR, 131 TKR) received TA pre-operatively. 381 patients (190 THR, 191 TKR) did not receive TA prior to surgery. A total of 8 (2.5%) patients who received TA were diagnosed with either a DVT (4) or PE (4) post operatively. In those patients not receiving TA, 6 had a DVT and 4 had a PE, a total of 10 (2.6%). Conclusion: Pre-operative use of Tranexamic Acid in primary THR and TKR does not increase the incidence of DVT and PE.