OBTAIN A: Outcome Benefits of Tranexamic Acid in Hip Arthroplasty. A Randomized Double-Blinded Controlled Trial

109 patients scheduled for total hip arthroplasty performed through a direct anterior approach were randomized to perioperative administration of either intravenous tranexamic acid or intravenous normal saline. The purpose of this study was to evaluate if intravenous TXA had any significant effect on thigh edema, as well as if TXA had any significant effect on functional performance or pain after 1 day, 3 days, and 2 weeks postoperatively. Blood loss parameters, including estimated total blood loss and allogenic transfusion rate, were also measured. Results demonstrated no significant differences between groups in postoperative results for thigh swelling, functional performance on the Timed Up and Go test and 10-meter walk test, or in pain. Estimated total blood loss was significantly lower in the TXA group compared to control group, though the difference in the incidence of transfusion did not reach statistical significance. Additionally, there was a significant reduction in the length of hospital stay in the TXA group.