DOI: 10.1093/bjs/znad258.177 ISSN:

1054 The Use of Tranexamic Acid in the Wythenshawe Plastic Surgery Department

G Reid, J Bedford
  • Surgery

Abstract

Aim

This audit aimed to benchmark current practice of the use of tranexamic acid (TXA) in the Wythenshawe plastic surgery department against the recent recommendations from the Joint Royal Colleges Tranexamic Acid in Surgery Implementation Group. The new guidance recommends that one gram of TXA should be given intravenously at the start and end of all inpatient surgery. TXA is routinely given in the plastic surgery department and is protocol for all the breast reconstructive surgeries however current practice is to administer this only at the start of the operation.

Method

30 general anaesthetic operations were reviewed retrospectively. The inclusion criteria were as follows: age >18 years old and must be admitted to hospital (at least 1 overnight stay).

Results

The first cycle demonstrated a 0% compliance. Following the intervention of all consultants being made aware of the new recommendations the second audit cycle demonstrated that a 13% compliance was achieved. It was noted that all breast reconstructions received the new recommended dosage regime however uptake amongst the other subspecialties was variable.

Conclusions

Simple education had a significant impact on increasing compliance. Further education amongst all junior doctors has been given to try and further increase uptake of this new guidance.

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