Background: Tranexamic acid (TXA) is an antifibrinolytic that has historically been used to treat menorrhagia and bleeding disorders. Exploration of its use in procedures has grown, and it has shown promise in its ability to achieve hemostasis with low risk to patients. Analysis of its use in Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is warranted due to its potential superiority to traditional methods of achieving hemostasis (direct pressure, electrocoagulation, and sutures).
Objective: To perform a systematic review of studies which evaluate the efficacy and safety profile of topical application or subcutaneous injection of TXA and analyze as it applies to MMS.
Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed database to identify relevant studies using the search terms: "tranexamic acid" OR "TXA." The search was performed up to December 1, 2023.
Results: Tranexamic acid has a strong safety profile, and its effectiveness in achieving hemostasis is well-demonstrated. Tranexamic acid has reduced risk of bleeding complications compared with traditional methods of achieving hemostasis.
Conclusion: An extensive review of the literature has yielded positive results, suggesting the potential of TXA in improving patient outcomes, reducing surgical time, decreasing intraoperative and postoperative bleeding, and increasing overall patient satisfaction.
Background: The 730-nm picosecond laser has shown promise in treating various benign pigmentary conditions, and it is yet to be determined whether it is effective and safe for melasma.
Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the potential benefits and risks of using the 730-nm picosecond laser to remove melasma.
Materials and methods: This is a retrospective review of all patients who presented to the clinic between April 2021 and April 2022 for the treatment of melasma with 730-nm picosecond laser alone. The efficacy of the laser was assessed based on the Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI) score using high-resolution photographs evaluated by blinded dermatologists.
Results: A total of 25 Chinese with Fitzpatrick skin Type II to IV were included. Patients were treated for an average of 3.56 ± 0.77 treatment sessions. The mean MASI scores decreased by 33.7% from 11.38 ± 6.60 to 7.55 ± 6.08 at an average of 8.48 ± 2.16 weeks of follow-up (p < .001). Among the patients, 1 experienced a 79% decrease, 6 had a decrease ranging from 51% to 75%, 10 had a decrease ranging from 26% to 50%, 5 had a decrease of less than 25%, and 3 experienced no changes in MASI scores. No hyper/hypopigmentation was observed.
Conclusion: Low-fluence 730-nm picosecond laser is an effective and safe modality for the treatment of melasma in Chinese patients.