Inflatable Leg Wraps Save Lives After Stroke

Researchers at the Western General Hospital and the University of Edinburgh suggest that cheap inflatable leg wraps may save the lives of patients after a stroke. These devices regularly squeeze the legs to keep blood flowing and prevent formation of fatal blood clots.

They conducted a trial on 2,876 patients, who showed there were fewer clots with the wraps. On testing the devices, which fit around the legs and fill with air every minute, compress the legs and force the blood back to the heart. They were worn for a month or until the patient recovered and was able to move again.

The Stroke Association found the results extremely encouraging, with the potential to save thousands of lives. The study findings were published in the journal Lancet.

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