The clinical significance of pulmonary embolism (PE) limited to the subsegmental pulmonary arteries, so called isolated subsegmental pulmonary embolism (SSPE), remains controversial. Whether isolated SSPE represents "true" PE, a clinically more benign form of PE, a physiologic lung clearing process, or a false positive result (artifact) is currently unclear and hence, whether patients with isolated SSPE benefit from anticoagulant treatment is uncertain. Despite growing evidence from observational studies that withholding anticoagulation may be a safe option in selected patients with isolated SSPE (i.e., those without concomitant deep vein thrombosis, cancer, etc.), most patients with isolated SSPE receive anticoagulant treatment, which is associated with an increased risk of bleeding. The overall objective of the randomized controlled SAFE-SSPE trial is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of clinical surveillance without anticoagulation compared to anticoagulation treatment in low-risk patients with isolated SSPE.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
. Informed Consent as documented by signature
. Age ≥18 years
. Objective diagnosis of symptomatic or asymptomatic isolated SSPE
Exclusion criteria
. Presence of leg deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or upper extremity DVT (subclavian vein or above)
. Active cancer, defined as cancer treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or palliative care during the last 6 months
. ≥1 prior episode of unprovoked VTE (absence of a transient or permanent risk factor)
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.