17. Prehospital Tranexamic Acid for Severe Trauma

Prehospital Tranexamic Acid for Severe Trauma

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Average read time: 30 to 35 minutes

Short Summary of the Article:

The article titled “Prehospital Tranexamic Acid for Severe Trauma” examines the effect of tranexamic acid administered before hospital admission on trauma patients at risk of trauma-induced coagulopathy. The study involved 1,310 patients from advanced trauma systems in Australia, New Zealand, and Germany. The participants were randomly assigned to receive either tranexamic acid or a placebo. The results showed no significant difference in survival with favorable functional outcomes at six months between the tranexamic acid group and the placebo group. However, the study noted a reduction in mortality within 28 days for those receiving tranexamic acid. The trial highlights the ongoing uncertainty around the use of tranexamic acid in advanced trauma systems, despite its success in reducing early mortality.

Learning Outcomes 

Upon completion of this activity, you should have an understanding of:

1. The use of tranexamic acid in prehospital settings: Understanding that while tranexamic acid may reduce early mortality in severe trauma patients, it does not necessarily lead to improved long-term functional outcomes.
2. Impact of tranexamic acid on early mortality: Knowledge of how tranexamic acid may reduce deaths due to bleeding within 28 days of injury in patients at risk of trauma-induced coagulopathy.
3. Limitations of tranexamic acid in trauma care: Insights into the potential risks, including thrombotic complications, and the lack of significant improvement in long-term functional outcomes associated with tranexamic acid use.