The CRASH-2 trial established that tranexamic acid (TXA) in trauma patients should be administered within how many hours of injury to reduce mortality?
- A Within 1 hour
- B Within 6 hours
- C Within 3 hours ✓
- D Within 8 hours
Correct answer: C. Within 3 hours
Explanation
CRASH-2 demonstrated that TXA (1 g IV over 10 minutes, then 1 g over 8 hours) reduces all-cause mortality in bleeding trauma patients when given within 3 hours of injury (greatest benefit <1 hour). Administration after 3 hours was associated with increased mortality, likely due to a pro-thrombotic shift from the anti-fibrinolytic mechanism. This has been incorporated into ATLS and damage control resuscitation protocols worldwide.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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