Tranexamic Acid Update in Trauma

Abstract

Following results from the CRASH-2 trial, tranexamic acid (TXA) gained considerable interest for the treatment of hemorrhage in trauma patients. Although TXA is effective at reducing mortality in patients presenting within 3 hours of injury, optimal dosing, timing of administration, mechanism, and pharmacokinetics require further elucidation. The concept of fibrinolysis shutdown in hemorrhagic trauma patients has prompted discussion of real-time viscoelastic testing and its potential role for appropriate patient selection. The results of ongoing clinical trials will help establish high-quality evidence for optimal incorporation of TXA in mature trauma networks in the United States and abroad.

Keywords: Antifibrinolytics; Coagulopathy; Hemorrhage; Surgery; Tranexamic acid; Trauma.