Tranexamic Acid for Wound Complications

(TXA in TAR Trial)

This trial tests whether tranexamic acid, a medication that reduces bleeding, can improve wound healing after ankle replacement surgery. The goal is to determine if this drug can reduce complications such as delayed healing, wound opening, or infections. Participants will receive either tranexamic acid or a placebo (a saltwater solution) during their surgery, and neither they nor their doctors will know which one they received. This pilot study aims to assess the feasibility of a larger study and whether tranexamic acid could enhance patient recovery. Suitable candidates have undergone or are planning ankle replacement surgery and can attend follow-up visits. As a Phase 2 trial, this research focuses on evaluating the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to contribute to significant medical advancements.

Research has shown that tranexamic acid (TXA) is generally safe for use during surgery. Studies have found that most people tolerate TXA well, experiencing only mild or moderate side effects, while serious reactions remain rare in clinical trials. TXA effectively reduces bleeding and complications during surgeries. For instance, one study found that bleeding issues decreased from about one-third of cases to just 4% with TXA use. Another study demonstrated that applying TXA directly to wounds is both effective and safe.

Tranexamic acid (TXA) is unique because it offers a dual approach to reducing wound complications by both intravenous and topical administration. Unlike traditional treatments that mainly focus on systemic administration, TXA is applied directly to the wound site through a soaked sponge, potentially enhancing its effectiveness at controlling bleeding and improving healing. Researchers are excited about TXA because this combined delivery method could lead to better localized effects, reducing the risk of bleeding and complications more efficiently than standard treatments.

Research has shown that tranexamic acid (TXA), which participants in this trial may receive, can greatly reduce bleeding during surgery. Studies have found that TXA decreases surgical blood loss by about one-third compared to a placebo. Surgeons have successfully used it in various procedures to reduce bleeding and swelling, aiding wound healing. In foot and ankle surgeries, TXA has lowered bleeding and fluid drainage after surgery, potentially aiding wound healing. While TXA effectively controls bleeding, more research is needed to confirm its specific benefits for wound healing in total ankle replacement surgeries.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹