TRIAD

What is TRIAD?

TRIAD is evaluating whether a dilute povidone-iodine wash before wound closure reduces surgical site infection after primary hip and knee replacement, compared with saline.

Why does TRIAD matter?

Infection after joint replacement can be devastating. TRIAD will determine whether a simple, low-cost antiseptic lavage can reduce infection and improve outcomes for patients undergoing hip and knee replacement.

Who is conducting TRIAD?

TRIAD is sponsored by the Australian National University and coordinated by the Australian Orthopaedic Association Clinical Trials and Analytics Unit.

How does TRIAD work?

TRIAD is a national study comparing two standard intra-operative wash approaches used during hip and knee replacement surgery. Instead of assigning individual patients to a treatment group, participating hospitals are randomly allocated to use one approach for a period of time and then switch to the other. This design helps researchers compare outcomes in everyday clinical practice. Patients are then followed after surgery to assess infection, complications, further surgery, and recovery.

Can a simple surgical wash reduce infection after hip or knee replacement?

Designed with Consumer Input

TRIAD was designed with direct consumer involvement. Consumer feedback helped shape the study’s focus on patient experience and education about recognising infection after joint replacement. The trial also has support from Arthritis Australia and Musculoskeletal Health Australia.

Trial registration number ACTRN12626000076370p