Addressing Blood Loss Mitigation with Tranexamic Acid

Orthognathic surgery, a complex procedure that corrects jaw misalignment and related facial deformities, can significantly improve a patient’s quality of life. However, its success depends heavily on a multitude of factors. Dr. Timothy Weber, an OMFS resident at the University of Alabama in Birmingham School of Dentistry, has dedicated his research to exploring how health literacy impacts patient outcomes in this specialized area.

“My works regarding health literacy shine a spotlight on a gap in care. Orthognathic surgery is a complex multi-step process, and understanding these steps is critical to the success of the patient. Questionnaires when beginning treatment to gauge health literacy may be useful to determine what health literacy interventions should be implemented when planning and executing the orthognathic surgery plan.”

Dr. Weber’s research further investigates the correlations between tranexamic acid administration during orthognathic procedures and associated outcomes following surgery. “My research advances the current knowledge base on tranexamic acid. It demonstrates the safety andefficacy of tranexamic acid to lower blood loss and decrease a patient’s need for hypotensive anesthesia - which comes with risks such as organ hypoperfusion.”

Dr. Weber presenting at UAB SOD Scholar Symposium.Dr. Weber presented his findings at the 2023 UAB SOD Scholar’s Symposium, where his research won 1st place for its potential applications for blood conservation in a field where significant blood loss remains a key concern. His research has been disseminated in various journals, including the Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. He began his research journey with Dr. Chad Dammling, a more senior oral surgery resident at the time. He was then introduced to Dr. Brian Kinard, Associate Professor of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at UAB SOD, whom he now credits as his mentor. As a team, Dr. Kinard and Dr. Weber have published four research articles, and show no sign of slowing down, “with two more in progress.”

When asked if he had any advice for others looking to get involved in research, Dr. Weber was happy to offer pointers for students. “I would recommend making connections with other peers, residents, or faculty in your field of interest. Ask to be involved in a research project, and more than likely they will have a project and a role for you. You may start with a smaller role, but the more you work with a mentor, they will give you more autonomy and bigger projects and roles.” He ended with an encouraging message to all budding professionals. “Don’t be afraid to try something new that is out of your comfort zone. Everyone has to start somewhere.”