Oral Versus IV TXA

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic medication used to reduce bleeding in a variety of medical settings. The use of TXA in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has resulted in dramatic decreases in operative blood loss and transfusion rates, revolutionizing the field of arthroplasty. The use of TXA, now common, has made autologous blood donation programs largely obsolete. Additionally, it has made perioperative blood transfusion uncommon. While AAOS guidelines suggest that all three available preparations of TXA (oral, IV, topical) are effective, preferred route of dosing varies by provider and institution. These preferences are based on habit, understanding of pharmacodynamics, and logistical issues regarding effective dosing. Oral TXA is the cheapest option, but some surgeons prefer IV dosing due to concerns regarding efficacy and controlled dosing. In this study, we seek to compare the efficacy of a single pre-op oral dose of TXA to a single pre-op IV dose of TXA.