Tranexamic Acid, Hemorrhage and Transfusions After Combined Aortic Valve Replacement and Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery.

In this study we will investigate whether tranexamic acid given as an intravenous bolus injection before start of surgery, followed by a continuous infusion during surgery reduces, perioperative hemostatic activation, and postoperative bleeding and the need for transfusions of blood components in elderly patients undergoing combined aortic valve replacement and coronary artery bypass surgery. Tranexamic acid will be compared with placebo (0.9% sodium chloride) in a randomized and double-blind study design. The study hypothesis is that tranexamic acid will reduce hemostatic activation and postoperative hemorrhage and the need for blood component transfusions in this group of patients.