ε-Aminocaproic acid versus tranexamic acid in children undergoing complex cranial vault reconstruction for repair of craniosynostosis

Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2021 Aug;68(8):e29093. doi: 10.1002/pbc.29093. Epub 2021 May 18.

Abstract

Complex cranial vault reconstruction (CCVR) for pediatric craniosynostosis is a high blood loss surgery, for which antifibrinolytic agents have been shown to reduce bleeding and transfusion requirements. The relative efficacy of ε-aminocaproic acid (EACA) versus tranexamic acid (TXA) has not yet been evaluated in this population. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare perioperative blood loss and transfusion in CCVR patients receiving EACA versus TXA. In a CCVR cohort of 95 children, 47 received EACA and 48 received TXA. We found no differences in demographics, adverse outcomes, calculated blood loss (CBL), or transfusion requirements between the two antifibrinolytic groups.

Keywords: antifibrinolytic agents; blood loss; blood transfusion; craniosynostoses; pediatric.

MeSH terms

  • Aminocaproic Acid* / therapeutic use
  • Antifibrinolytic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Blood Loss, Surgical / prevention & control
  • Child
  • Craniosynostoses* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Tranexamic Acid* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antifibrinolytic Agents
  • Tranexamic Acid
  • Aminocaproic Acid