Comparing single and multiple doses of tranexamic acid for spine surgery patients

Single Versus Multi-Dose Oral and Intravenous Tranexamic Acid in Patients at High Risk for Blood Transfusion After Spine Surgery

Early Phase 1 Interventional Rush University Medical Center · NCT03849443

This study is testing whether giving one or multiple doses of tranexamic acid can help reduce blood loss and the need for blood transfusions in patients having spine surgery.

Quick facts

PhaseEarly Phase 1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment604 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRush University Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT03849443 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of single versus multiple doses of tranexamic acid (TXA) in reducing blood loss and the need for transfusions in patients undergoing open posterior thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery. It will compare the outcomes of patients receiving a single dose of TXA with those receiving repeated oral doses or intravenous administration. The study is designed as a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial, ensuring that neither the participants nor the researchers know which treatment is being administered. The goal is to determine if a multi-dose regimen can significantly minimize postoperative complications related to blood loss.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 scheduled for open posterior thoracolumbar spinal fusion surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of thromboembolic disease, severe comorbidities, or those who refuse blood products may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved postoperative outcomes and reduced transfusion needs for patients undergoing spine surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that tranexamic acid can effectively reduce blood loss in other surgical procedures, suggesting potential success for this approach in spine surgery.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Any patient older than 18 years old
* Scheduled for an open posterior thoracolumbar spinal fusion procedure

Exclusion Criteria:

* Allergy to TXA
* Acquired disturbances of color vision
* Refusal of blood products
* Pre-op use of anticoagulant therapy within five days before surgery
* History of arterial or venous thromboembolic disease (such as DVT, PE, CVA, TIA)
* Pregnancy
* Breastfeeding
* Severe ischemic heart disease \[New York Heart Association Class III or IV\]
* Previous myocardial infarction
* Severe pulmonary disease
* Renal impairment
* Hepatic failure
* Patients who decline to participate
* Intolerance or sensitivity to Vitamin C

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Open Posterior Thoracolumbar Spinal Fusion Procedure
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.