Delivery and Implementation of a Randomised Crossover Trial on Thrombosis

Launched by QUEEN MARY UNIVERSITY OF LONDON · Apr 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The DIRECT study is a large research project aimed at finding the best way to prevent blood clots in older adults who have broken their hip. This study will compare two common treatments: aspirin, which is a simple tablet, and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), which requires daily injections. Blood clots can be very serious, so it’s important to figure out which treatment works better for patients after they suffer a hip fracture. This research will involve over 21,000 patients aged 60 and older across 96 hospitals in the UK.

To be eligible for the study, participants need to be at least 60 years old and have suffered a hip fracture that has been recorded in UK health registries. Those who meet these criteria will not need to do anything extra or attend additional appointments; their data will be collected from existing health records. The hope is that if aspirin proves to be just as effective as LMWH, it could make treatment easier for patients, reduce costs for the NHS, and provide a more comfortable option for those recovering from hip fractures. Your personal information will be kept safe and confidential throughout the study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Adults from 60 to 150 years sustaining fragility hip fracture identified by their entry into UK hip registries.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Individuals who do not meet the eligibility criteria to be enrolled in the NHFD and SHFA registries Hip fracture individuals above 150 years of age.