Plastic Surgery Research Priorities

Why plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery is a collection of techniques used to reconstruct or improve any part of the body. Patients of all ages benefit from plastic surgery care. Conditions treated include birth differences, trauma, infections, and cancer.

What is the aim of the project?

The aim of the project is to describe the research priorities most important to those that use research findings (such as patients, healthcare workers, academics and policy makers). This allows researchers and funders to understand where their effort will have most impact. This will maximise patient benefit and reduce research waste.

We aim to provide an ordered list of global research questions that can be used when applying for research funding. We will also create a UK specific list of priorities.

How will the project be delivered?

We will use a modified version of the Child Health and Nutrition Research Initiative (CHNRI) method for setting research priorities. An overview of the stages are outlined below. A protocol is in preparation and will be published in due course.

• Stage 1 Survey distributed to all stakeholders to gather research uncertainties
• Stage 2 Research uncertainties categorised into domains ready for scoring
• Stage 3 Scoring of research questions
• Stage 4 Analysis and prioritisation of research questions

 The project has a core delivery group and oversight from an International Steering Committee with representatives from the six WHO domains.

Who is funding the project?

The British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (BAPRAS) is providing funding for the project. We are open to additional project partners.

How can I get involved?