Current Studies

An international randomized trial of conservative versus surgical management of pediatric nail-bed injuries. This study builds on the original NINJA trial, aiming to definitively answer whether children with simple nail-bed lacerations can be managed without formal surgical repair (allowing the nail to regrow naturally) or if operative repair leads to better outcomes.

ACTPRAS is coordinating Australian/New Zealand participation in NINJA 2, in collaboration with UK partners. Status: In set-up – trial protocol finalized and ethics approval in progress, with site recruitment to commence soon. Hospitals interested in joining NINJA 2 can express interest now.

LYMPHATIC Trial: A planned trial on treatments for lymphedema in breast reconstruction patients, in early design stage with our partners in vascular surgery.

This project aims to develop the first global list of priority research questions in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Alongside this, we will also generate a separate list of UK-specific priorities to inform local funders. These outcomes will help guide policymakers, researchers, funding bodies and industry towards the most impactful areas for future research investment.

A collaborative audit of microsurgical training outcomes across Australasia – investigating how many microsurgery cases trainees perform and their success rates, to inform improvements in training (proposal under review).

A factorial-design trial studying the impact of antimicrobial techniques in breast implant surgery. In partnership with ASPS, ASAPS, and the Australian Breast Device Registry, HIBISCUS will evaluate different combinations of antimicrobial prophylaxis – such as pocket irrigation solutions and antibiotic use – during breast implant insertion. The aim is to determine the optimal infection prevention strategy to reduce complications like capsular contracture and implant infection.

Status: In development – currently in the planning and pilot phase. Stakeholder input is being gathered; the study will likely launch as a multicentre trial in the coming year.