To compare the efficacy of adductor canal blocks (ACB) and periarticular anesthetic injections (PAI) with bupivacaine in total knee arthroplasty. 90 patients undergoing primary total knee arthroplasty under spinal anesthesia were randomized to 1 of 3 groups: ACB alone (15 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine), PAI alone (50 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine with epinephrine) and ACB + PAI. Primary outcome in this study was the visual analog scale (VAS) pain score in the immediate postoperative period. Secondary outcomes included postoperative opioid use, activity level during physiotheraphy, length of hospital stay and ROM.Abstract
Introduction
Methods
20-70% of patients need blood transfusion postoperatively. There remain safety concerns regarding allogenic blood transfusion. Tranexamic acid (TA) is a synthetic antifibrinolytic agent that has been successfully used to stop bleeding in other specialties. We applied TA topically prior to the wound closure to find out the effect on blood loss as well as need for subsequent blood transfusion. This method of administration is quick, easy, has less systemic side effect and provides a higher concentration at the bleeding site. A double blind randomised controlled trial of 154 patients who underwent unilateral primary cemented total knee replacement. Patients were randomised into tranexamic acid group (1g drug mixed with saline to make up 20mls) or placebo (20ml 0.9% saline). The administration technique and drain protocol was standardised for all patients. Drain output was measured at 24 hours, and both groups compared for need of Blood transfusion. Outcome measures - blood loss, transfusion, complications, Euroqol and Oxford Knee Score.PURPOSE OF STUDY
MATERIALS AND METHODS