Efficacy of tranexamic acid in reducing blood loss during and after Transhiatal Oesophagectomy

Abstract

Background: Transhiatal oesophagectomy is associated with peri and postoperative blood loss. This study was aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of tranexamic acid in reducing peri and postoperative blood loss in patients undergoing transhiatal oesophagectomy. Materials and Methods: A total of 64 patients, who underwent elective transhiatal oesophagectomy were studied. They were divided into two groups. In the study group of 40, tranexamic acid 10 mg/kg intravenous was given before starting intra thoracic dissection and the control group did not receive tranexamic acid. Intra and post-operative blood loss, operation time, transfusion of blood products, preand post-operative haemoglobin, number of days of hospitalisation and in hospital mortality was studied for both groups. Results: Tranexamic acid significantly reduced the volume of blood loss during the surgery when compared with the control group. Considering the duration of operation and the treatment groups only, the mean total blood loss in the control group was more than that in the tranexamic acid group. There was no difference in the length of hospital stay between the two groups. Conclusion: The prophylactic administration of tranexamic acid has effectively reduced the blood loss and transfusion needs during transhiatal oesophagectomy without any adverse effects or complication of thrombosis.