Tranexamic Acid in the Treatment of Hip Fractures: A Clinical Review

INTRODUCTION: Although regularly used as a method to reduce blood loss in elective orthopedic procedures (e.g., total hip and knee arthroplasty), there currently is little evidence concerning the optimal dosage, timing and route for the use of tranexamic acid to reduce postoperative blood loss in hip fracture repair. SUMMARY OF THE EVIDENCE: The current literature suggests that tranexamic acid may be used to reduce postoperative blood loss in addition to reducing the risk of requiring blood transfusions following the surgical repair of hip fractures. Furthermore, it may have the potential to improve patient outcomes and decrease the overall costs of caring for this patient population. CONCLUSIONS: Further studies are needed to truly gauge the effect of tranexamic acid on long-term patient outcomes and hospital costs.