Prophylaxis of Thromboembolism in Critically Ill Patients Using Combined Intermittent Pneumatic Compression(IPC) and Pharmacologic Prophylaxis Versus Pharmacologic Prophylaxis Alone: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

Patients admitted to the intensive care unit are at high risk of developing clots in the veins of the lower extremities. The objective of this study is to examine whether the use of a device that provides intermittent compression to the legs in addition to the use of low-dose blood thinners, provides an additional protection when compared to the use of blood thinners alone. Patients who are admitted to the intensive care unit are receiving low-dose blood thinners to prevent clots are candidates for this study. Patients who are enrolled will continue to receive blood thinners but some will additionally receive the leg compression. The additional use of leg compression may provide protection from clots. The main side effect is possible skin abrasions but this is usually mild. The study is sponsored by King Abdullah International Medical Research Center(KAIMRC) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology(KACST) and will be conducted in several hospitals in Saudi Arabia, Canada, Australia, Brazil and possibly other countries. The study started July 2014 and is to continue for 4 years.