TXA in the Reduction of Post-Op Hematoma and Seroma in Patients Undergoing Panniculectomy or Abdominoplasty

Participants consented to take part in this study will be assigned by chance to receive either placebo (Group 1) or TXA (Group 2) during the surgical procedure. This study will be double-blinded, in that neither the patient nor the surgeon will know to which treatment, (placebo vs. TXA) that the patient will receive. Participating patients will be randomized to receive normal saline (control group) or tranexamic acid (study population) on the day of surgery by the pharmacist. Normal saline is the current standard of care. Double blinding ensures that the researcher or the patient's opinion does not influence study results, however this information is available from the pharmacy in the event of any complications. Each group will have 10 participants. The solution of either saline or TXA will be placed into a sterile bowl in the operating area and three lap sponges will be placed in the solution at the beginning of the procedure. Group 1 will undergo application of three normal saline soaked lap sponges to the surgical site. Group 2 will undergo application of three TXA soaked lap sponges to the surgical site. The lap sponges will be removed after three minutes and measurements will be taken for the study. After discharge, post-operative drain output will be monitored and recorded by the patient on a provided drain documentation sheet. This does not differ from the current standard of care regarding drain output recordings. All patients who receive a post-surgical drain are asked to document output. All patients will be educated on routine drain care and recording drain output. Patients will not need to undergo any extra medical tests, medical procedures or doctor visits if they decide to join the study. Patient participation in the study begins upon signature of the consent form and is expected to last no more than 8 weeks following the patient's surgical procedure.