MonitoRing the Effect of Intermittent Pneumatic Compression and TRAnscutaneous Functional electrIcal Stimulation of the Common Peroneal Nerve Using the Geko® Device on Cerebral Haemodynamics in Patients With Ischaemic Strokes (The RETRAIN Trial Phase 2)

What this Trial Is About

Ischaemic strokes occur due to a disruption in the brain's blood supply and are a leading cause of death and disability. This randomised study aims to compare the effects of two standard devices, the geko® neuromuscular electrostimulation device and the intermittent pneumatic compression (IPC) device, on brain blood flow in patients who recently had an ischaemic stroke. The study focuses on the hyperacute phase within 36 hours of stroke onset and evaluates cerebral blood flow and oxygen delivery. Participants will be randomly assigned to use either the IPC device, which applies cyclic external pressure to the legs to promote blood flow, or the geko® device, which stimulates nerves in the lower leg to induce muscle contractions that enhance circulation. Both devices are used as part of routine care to prevent blood clots. The devices will be applied bilaterally following manufacturers' instructions during the study period. During the study, brain blood flow will be measured using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) and electroencephalography (EEG) while patients are sitting upright in bed. Assessments include periods with the device off and on, conducted twice daily over two days. Vital signs such as blood pressure, ECG, temperature, and oxygen levels will be monitored continuously. No follow-up is required after completing these assessments.

The RETRAIN Trial Phase 2