Effect of Tranexamic Acid on Bleeding After Bariatric Surgery

Postoperative bleeding is an important complication of bariatric surgery and may lead to increased morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and higher healthcare costs. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has been shown to reduce perioperative blood loss in several surgical specialties; however, evidence regarding its effectiveness and safety in bariatric surgery remains limited.

This retrospective observational cohort study aims to evaluate the effect of prophylactic intraoperative tranexamic acid administration on perioperative bleeding in patients undergoing bariatric surgery. The primary objective is to assess the postoperative decrease in hemoglobin levels. Secondary objectives include evaluating the need for blood transfusion, length of hospital stay, and the incidence of thromboembolic complications, including deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, portal vein thrombosis, and acute coronary syndrome.

The study includes patients who underwent bariatric surgery at G. Gennimatas General Hospital between May 1, 2024, and April 30, 2026.