The Role of a Topical Hemostatic Agent in Reducing Blood Loss In Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

Mark Figgie, MD

Bone and soft tissue bleeding following total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a major cause of postoperative morbidity and frequently requires transfusion. “FloSeal”, a thrombin and collagen based agent, has been shown to dramatically improve hemostasis in spinal surgery (Renkens et al. Spine 2001). Blood loss during TKA is a critical problem, and efforts should be made to minimize blood loss postoperatively.  FloSeal is a high-viscosity gel used for hemostasis when control of bleeding by ligature or other conventional procedures is ineffective or impractical.  Application of “FloSeal” hemostatic matrix intra-operatively for unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) will result in decreased postoperative drain output, a reduction in transfusion requirements, and fewer falls in hemoglobin.   Our IRB approved protocol will begin enrollment shortly. Our student would be responsible for screening patients, assisting with consenting procedures, data collection and patient follow-up.

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Barbara Kahn
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