Shocking clots away: muscle zaps may prevent dangerous blood clots in hospital patients

NCT ID NCT06135857

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether using a device that electrically stimulates arm muscles can prevent blood clots caused by PICC catheters in critically ill patients. 120 adults in intensive care units were randomly assigned to receive either standard care or standard care plus two daily 20-minute sessions of muscle stimulation. Researchers used ultrasound to check for clots over the first few weeks after catheter placement.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

electromuscular stimulation device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, non-drug way to prevent dangerous blood clots in hospitalized patients with PICC lines.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial (120 patients) testing a device, so results may not apply broadly. The therapy requires daily sessions and may not be practical for all patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

thrombotic disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Hospital Dr. Josep Trueta de Girona

    Girona, Espanya, 17007, Spain