Evaluating the use of compression stockings for patients needing blood-thinning medication after surgery

Graduated Compression Stocking as an Adjunct to Extended Duration Pharmacological Thromboprophylaxis for Venous Thromboembolism Prevention

NA · Imperial College London · NCT06166537

This study is testing if wearing compression stockings can help high-risk surgical patients who are on blood-thinning medication avoid dangerous blood clots.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment8608 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorImperial College London (other)
Locations3 sites (Bristol and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06166537 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial investigates whether adding graduated compression stockings (GCS) to extended duration pharmacological thromboprophylaxis (EDPTP) can further reduce the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) in high-risk surgical patients. It addresses the significant issue of hospital-acquired thrombosis, which leads to preventable mortality. The study will compare outcomes between patients receiving GCS and those who do not, aiming to clarify the effectiveness and necessity of GCS in this context. The trial is crucial given the high costs associated with GCS and the potential complications they may cause.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older undergoing elective surgery who are assessed as requiring extended duration pharmacological thromboprophylaxis.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to pharmacological thromboprophylaxis or graduated compression stockings, or those requiring therapeutic anticoagulation, will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective prevention strategies for VTE in surgical patients, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of graduated compression stockings, making this trial a necessary investigation into their role alongside pharmacological methods.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adults (≥18 years of age)
* Participants undergoing elective surgery; risk assessed as requiring EDPTP

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindications to EDPTP or GCS
* Individuals requiring therapeutic anticoagulation e.g., anticoagulation for previous DVT
* Known thrombophilia or thrombogenic disorder

Where this trial is running

Bristol and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Venous Thromboembolism, Surgery

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.