MATERIAL and METHODS: Data of thirty-six children (operated between 2014-2017) were categorized into two groups depending on TXA delivery. Patient demographics, preoperative, intraoperative, postoperative data on hemostasis and metabolic outcomes were recorded. Blood loss from the drains, estimated blood loss (EBV loss), volume of blood transfusions, hemodynamic alerations and complications were extracted. Postoperative outcome involved variables at admission, 2^nd, 6^th, 12^th, 24^th hours. A multiple logistic regression analysis was also performed.

RESULTS: Demographics presented mean age of 8.14 ± 3.53 months, male/female ratio:1.76/1, procedure length 3.98 ± 0.78 hours. Intraoperative analysis indicated TXA deliveries manifested fewer blood transfusion volumes (p=0.002) due to lower EBV loss (4.02 ± 1.19 ml/kg vs. 5.97 ± 1.61 ml/kg, p<0.001) with better metabolic outcome. Postoperative outcomes presented all children manifested hematocrit decline after surgey. TXA did not influence postoperative hemodynamic alterations (p=0.090, p=0.112), despite reduced blood loss from the drains and transfusion necessity (p=0.015, p=0.0175). Intraoperative transfusion volumes and EBV loss were associated with postoperative hemodynamics (OR: 3.033, 95% CI: 1.286-7.154; p=0.011; OR: 0.280, 95% CI: 0.081-0.972; p=0.045, respectively). ROC analysis indicated 10.13 ml/kg of intraoperative blood transfusion requirement as the cut off value for hemodynamic instability with 91% sensitivity and 80% specificity. One unit increase in intraoperative transfused blood volume increased the odds of developing hemodynamic alterations by 3.033 times.

CONCLUSION: Intraoperative TXA is crucial for successful surgical management; however postoperative period carries out paramount importance due to excessive bleeding after surgery. In case of severe intraoperative transfusion necessity, postoperative TXA utilization might be considered to minimize potential risks by balancing the pros and cons of the drug. Keywords : Tranexamic acid, Craniosynostosis, Blood loss, Surgery