Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 27, 2026

In Vitro Thrombosis Test for Ventricular Assist Devices
Published on: March 21, 2025
The anticoagulation of calf thrombosis (ACT) project: results from the randomized controlled external pilot trial
Daniel Horner1, Kerstin Hogg2, Richard Body1
1Emergency Department, The University of Manchester, Manchester, England.
Background:
There is currently little evidence defining the clinical importance of detecting and treating isolated distal DVT (IDDVT). International guidelines vary regarding diagnostic and therapeutic advice. The potential benefits of anticoagulation are unquantified. We sought to evaluate the feasibility of a randomized controlled study within a modern framework and provide a primary outcome point estimate.
Methods:
In this open-label, external pilot randomized controlled trial, consecutive, symptomatic, ambulatory patients with IDDVT were approached for inclusion. Participants were allocated to receive either therapeutic anticoagulation or conservative management. Patients underwent blinded color-duplex imaging at 7 and 21 days and follow-up at 3 months. Principal feasibility outcomes included recruitment rate and attrition. The principal clinical outcome was a composite including proximal propagation, pulmonary embolism, death attributable to VTE disease, or major bleeding. Analysis was by intention to treat.
Results:
In total, 93 patients with IDDVT were screened, and 70 of those eligible (88.6%) were recruited. All patients but one were followed-up by direct contact after 90 days. Allocation crossover occurred in 15 patients (21.4%). The principal clinical outcome occurred in four of 35 of those conservatively treated (11.4%) and zero of 35 in the anticoagulated group (absolute risk reduction, 11.4%; 95% CI, -1.5 to 26.7, P = .11, number needed to treat of nine). There were no major bleeding episodes.
Conclusions:
We have established the feasibility of definitive study regarding the value of therapeutic anticoagulation in IDDVT and provide an approximate point estimate for serious complications with a contemporary conservative strategy.
Trial Registry:
Current Controlled Trials; No.: ISRCTN75175695; URL: www.controlled-trials.com.
Insights
This pilot study found it feasible to research anticoagulation for isolated distal deep vein thrombosis (IDDVT). Anticoagulation may reduce serious VTE complications, warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Thrombosis Research
- Clinical Trial Design
Background:
- Limited evidence exists on the clinical significance of isolated distal deep vein thrombosis (IDDVT).
- International guidelines offer varying recommendations for IDDVT diagnosis and treatment.
- The benefits of anticoagulation for IDDVT remain unquantified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial for IDDVT.
- To provide a primary outcome point estimate for a definitive study.
- To evaluate the potential benefits of therapeutic anticoagulation in IDDVT patients.
Main Methods:
- An open-label, external pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted.
- Symptomatic, ambulatory patients with IDDVT were randomized to therapeutic anticoagulation or conservative management.
- Patients underwent blinded duplex imaging and 3-month follow-up; intention-to-treat analysis was used.
Main Results:
- Seventy of 93 eligible patients (88.6%) were recruited, with high follow-up rates.
- The primary clinical outcome occurred in 11.4% of conservatively treated patients versus 0% in the anticoagulated group.
- No major bleeding events were reported in either group.
Conclusions:
- A definitive study on the value of therapeutic anticoagulation for IDDVT is feasible.
- This study provides an estimated point for serious complications associated with a conservative approach.
- Findings support further research into anticoagulation strategies for IDDVT.
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