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The Use of Tranexamic Acid in Trauma

  • ANESTHESIA FOR TRAUMA (TE GRISSOM, SECTION EDITOR)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The role of tranexamic acid (TXA) in hemorrhage control has been extensively studied in non-trauma patients and has been shown to decrease bleeding and improve outcomes. This review aims to discuss the known mechanisms of TXA, previous studies of its use in the surgical setting, and the proposed benefits and drawbacks of its use in trauma patients.

Recent Findings

The universal use of TXA in trauma patients at risk for hemorrhage is controversial. Recent studies have shown that TXA may be beneficial and reduces mortality in trauma patients, including for those with traumatic brain injury. However, there is still some uncertainty on the administration and dosing of TXA, as well as its effect on the incidence of thromboembolic events.

Summary

This study reviews the role of TXA in trauma patients and the potential risks and benefits TXA administration may have in this patient population.

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Data Availability

Not applicable.

Code Availability

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References

Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA

    Bhavana Thota, Alexander Marinica, Matthew W. Oh & Tiffany Sun Moon

  2. University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO, USA

    Michael W. Cripps

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  1. Bhavana Thota
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  2. Alexander Marinica
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Contributions

Bhavana Thota, B.S.: drafting and revision of manuscript; Alexander Marinicia, D.O.: drafting and revision of manuscript; Matthew W. Oh, B.S.: drafting and revision of manuscript; Michael W. Cripps M.D., M.S.C.S.: drafting and revision of manuscript; Tiffany Sun Moon, M.D.: drafting and revision of manuscript.

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Correspondence to Tiffany Sun Moon.

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Thota, B., Marinica, A., Oh, M.W. et al. The Use of Tranexamic Acid in Trauma. Curr Anesthesiol Rep 12, 192–199 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40140-021-00509-7

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