Study: Common Drug Cuts Risk of Liver Failure After Surgery by Two-Thirds
A multi-center study co-led by researchers at Mayo Clinic and Michigan State University has found that the medication tranexamic acid reduces the risk of post-hepatectomy liver failure by approximately three times compared to a placebo. The findings were published in the journal Blood.
This is the first potential preventive medication for a complication that is a leading cause of death following liver resection.
Background
Post-hepatectomy liver failure is a serious complication and a leading cause of death following liver resection. Currently, no approved medications exist to prevent this condition.
Key Findings
- In preclinical models, temporarily reducing plasminogen enhanced liver regeneration after resection.
- An analysis of data from the HeLiX trial showed that tranexamic acid was associated with a lower incidence of liver failure.
- The protective effect of tranexamic acid was reported to be strongest in patients with impaired liver function prior to surgery.
- The findings challenge a previous assumption that plasminogen is necessary for liver regeneration.
Mechanism
Tranexamic acid prevents the breakdown of blood clots by inhibiting the fibrinolytic system. The study suggests that targeting fibrinolysis may support liver regeneration.
Implications
The study provides a rationale for further clinical trials to evaluate tranexamic acid as a preventive strategy for post-hepatectomy liver failure.
Researchers stated that further studies are needed to confirm whether the medication could become part of a preventive strategy for high-risk patients.