Subcutaneous Tranexamic Acid: A Novel Approach to Managing Bleeding

Abstract

We describe the case of a 68 year old with a transglottic squamous cell carcinoma, a tracheostomy and persistent blood stained tracheal secretions. Oral and intravenous Tranexamic Acid (TA) effectively controlled the bleeding. On losing both routes, we administered 2g of TA (20ml) by continuous subcutaneous infusion over 24 hours. Control of bleeding was maintained over 18 days until death. No site reactions were observed. A literature review was undertaken, however, none of the studies looked at the use of TA in an end of life or palliative care population. We identified 3 clinical palliative care guidelines relating to continuous subcutaneous administration of TA. Further use should be reported in the literature to build the evidence base surrounding this novel practice.