Venous Thrombosis Virtual Surveillance in COVID (VVIRTUOSO)

COVID-19 increases the risk of blood clots especially in patients who are admitted to hospital. Reports show a high rate of venous thrombosis (blood clots in the veins) affecting 3% of COVID-19 patients admitted to hospital and 11% to 70% of those who have life-threatening illness. This is higher than hospitalized patients with other medical illnesses. Venous thrombosis includes blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). It is one of the most common preventable causes of death and disability associated with hospitalization. Most cases of venous thrombosis occur after hospital discharge and can be fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly. The risk of venous thrombosis in patients with COVID-19 after discharge from hospital is not currently known. They are likely at high risk due to incomplete recovery, reduced mobility, older age and other medical problems. The overall goal of the VVIRTUOSO study determine the rate of venous thrombosis after hospital discharge in 500 patients with COVID-19 using a virtual monitoring program at 12 sites in Canada and the United States. We will also explore factors that increase the likelihood of venous thrombosis. As part of this study, we will also assess VTE awareness and patient-reported quality of the monitoring program (quality of communication and patient satisfaction). Our multidisciplinary team includes researchers, clinicians, patient partners and collaborators Thrombosis Canada (www.thrombosiscanada.ca) and the CanVECTOR Network (www.canvector.ca). We have the necessary experience, existing research network infrastructure, and knowledge translation mechanisms to successfully complete this study and disseminate the results rapidly and widely.