A Comparison Of Arthroscopic Synovial Biopsy Based Targeted Biologic Therapy Versus Conventional Therapy In Rheumatoid Arthritis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$133,351.00
Summary
This proposed study will investigate if treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on biopsy of affected joints’ lining is better than standard therapy (not based on the results of biopsy). Current strategies to treat RA not infrequently result in incomplete disease suppression with potentially resultant joint damage, in part because of lack of definite guidelines to individualise treatment. We propose that therapy on the basis of the analysis of biopsy of joint lining will lead to better dise ....This proposed study will investigate if treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) based on biopsy of affected joints’ lining is better than standard therapy (not based on the results of biopsy). Current strategies to treat RA not infrequently result in incomplete disease suppression with potentially resultant joint damage, in part because of lack of definite guidelines to individualise treatment. We propose that therapy on the basis of the analysis of biopsy of joint lining will lead to better disease control than the currently prevalent approach.Read moreRead less
Microbial Restoriation In Crohn's Disease: A Randomised Trial Of Faecal Microbial Transplanatation In Crohn's Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$487,123.00
Summary
Crohn's disease causes inflammation and damage to the digestive tract. Compelling evidence suggests that the bacteria in the gut play an important role in the onset of disease. Changing the gut bacteria through the administration of healthy stool to a patient, faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT), is safe and may be effective. This placebo controlled trial will determine whether FMT (delivered via capsule) can control inflammation in Crohn's. Results will change current treatment paradigms.
A La CaRT: Australasian Laparoscopic Cancer Of The Rectum Trial. A Phase III Prospective Randomised Trial Comparing Laparoscopic-assisted Resection Versus Open Resection For Rectal Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$599,054.00
Summary
The major treatment for rectal cancer is surgical removal of tumour with a large cut through the abdomen. There is a newer, less invasive procedure known as laparoscopic resection which enables the same surgery to be performed using a scope inserted in the abdomen and another smaller incision for removal of the tumour. This study is being conducted to determine whether the newer procedure is as safe and effective as the current procedure. Patients on the trial will be given either laparoscopi
Improving Outcomes For People With Depression In Community Settings: A Cluster RCT
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$803,554.00
Summary
Depression affects 350 million people worldwide. Given the pivotal role of primary care in the management of depression, effective strategies are needed to assist GPs in the delivery of patient-centred depression care. This study will test the effectiveness of providing GPs with education; as well as feedback about patients’ self-reported depressive scores using a standardised instrument and perceived need and preferences for help. This cluster RCT will be the first Australian trial of its kind.
Deep Brain Stimulation In The Treatment Of Severe Depression
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,008,087.00
Summary
Some patients with depression fail to respond to a variety of standard treatments and in this group, deep brain stimulation (DBS) is being evaluated as an alternative treatment option. This study will investigate the use of DBS applied to a novel brain target site in patients with highly treatment refractory depression.
Improving Alcohol Treatment Outcomes: The Impact Of Client, Intervention And System Variables On Treatment Outcomes.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$1,525,879.00
Summary
Patient outcomes are significantly influenced by a number of factors including the characteristics of the patient, the type of treatment provided, and the characteristics of the system in which care is delivered. This study aims to determine how these factors influence outcomes for people seeking treatment for alcohol dependence. It will provide critical information for policy makers on which to base minimum service standards.
Characterisation Of CFAE Wavefront Propogation In Human Persistent AF
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$418,612.00
Summary
Atrial fibrillation can be eliminated by a relatively new treatment called catheter ablation, which involves modification of the electrical properties of the heart using thin wires (catheters) passed up from the leg. Targeting areas where catheters record abnormal electrical activity improves results of catheter ablation, although it is uncertain what these recordings represent. The aim of this study is to characterize these abnormal electrical signals in an attempt to improve ablation outcomes.
Optimising Therapy In Anti-neutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody (ANCA) Associated Vasculitis
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$124,676.00
Summary
ANCA vasculitis is a rare autoimmune condition causing inflammation in small blood vessels, that can lead to organ failure and death. This research will help identify the best treatment approach for different subgroups of patients and the best timing of certain treatments. We will also explore patient symptoms and experience of this condition, and how this relates to disease activity, damage and medication effects.