Dr. Joseph A. Gracé 

MB,BS(HONS), FRACGP, FACNEM, FACP 

Vascular Interventionalist 

Overview

Dr Joseph Grace is an accomplished clinician-researcher and vascular interventionalist whose research expertise spans the domains of phlebology, medical adhesives, regenerative medicine, and diagnostic imaging. As a PhD candidate and Adjunct Senior Lecturer at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) Faculty of Medicine, Dr Grace combines over three decades of clinical excellence with a rigorous commitment to scientific inquiry and translational research.

Research Themes

1. Liquid Embolic Agents and Medical Adhesives
Dr Grace is a recognised authority in the study of cyanoacrylate-based liquid embolic agents, particularly their polymerisation behaviour, physicochemical interactions, and biocompatibility. His research investigates the release of toxic by-products—such as formaldehyde—from these compounds and their implications for patient safety. This work has informed regulatory discussions and contributed to policy development on the classification and clinical use of adhesive embolisation products.

2. Phlebology and Minimally Invasive Vascular Interventions
A core area of Dr Grace’s research explores innovations in the treatment of venous disease. He has published on techniques including endovenous laser ablation, ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy, and foam embolotherapy. His contributions to the development of clinical guidelines—such as the Australasian College of Phlebology's consensus on cyanoacrylate closure—highlight his role in shaping best practices in the field.

3. Regenerative Medicine and Autologous Therapies
Dr Grace has pioneered the use of autologous haemoderivatives and mesenchymal stem cell therapies for vascular and dermal applications. With over 500 procedures involving autologous biologics, his research addresses the efficacy and regenerative potential of bioactive injectables in chronic wound care and post-interventional healing.

4. Diagnostic Imaging and Vascular Ultrasound
An expert in duplex and Doppler vascular sonography, Dr Grace has performed and reported thousands of vascular scans. His research integrates imaging data to inform procedural planning, enhance precision in interventional treatments, and evaluate clinical outcomes over time.

Academic Appointments and Laboratory Affiliation

Dr Grace is a PhD candidate at the UNSW Dermatology, Phlebology and Fluid Mechanics Research Laboratory, located at St Vincent’s Centre for Applied Medical Research. Under the supervision of Associate Professor Kurosh Parsi and Dr David Connor, his doctoral research examines the structural and chemical interaction of liquid embolics with biological tissues. He previously completed a Master of Science at UNSW Sydney, focusing on sclerosant–contrast interactions and their effect on polymerisation dynamics.

In his role as Adjunct Senior Lecturer at UNSW, Dr Grace co-supervises honours students, delivers bedside tutorials, and integrates his research insights into the formal medical curriculum.

Peer-Reviewed Publications

Dr Grace has authored and co-authored numerous peer-reviewed articles, including:

• Polymerisation of Cyanoacrylates: The Effect of Sclero-Embolic and Contrast Agents (Phlebology, 2024)

• Serious Adverse Events in Cyanoacrylate Closure: A Global Review (Phlebology, 2023)

• LIPIODOL Reduces the Lytic Activity of Detergent Sclerosants In Vitro (Phlebology, 2021)

• Consensus Guidelines for Cyanoacrylate Closure in Peripheral Veins (Phlebology, 2019)

• Multiple articles in the ANZ Journal of Surgery and Journal de Phlébologie on venous valve imaging, stenting, and varicose vein management

These publications reflect a consistent focus on improving procedural safety, advancing therapeutic materials, and contributing to clinical guidelines in vascular medicine.

Scientific Engagement and Knowledge Translation

Dr Grace has presented his research at leading international conferences including the Union Internationale de Phlébologie and the German Society of Phlebology. His findings have had a direct impact on clinical practice, particularly in the refinement of embolisation protocols and the integration of diagnostic ultrasound in vascular interventions.

He has also contributed to national and international discussions on regulatory oversight of medical adhesives and was instrumental in submitting recommendations to health authorities regarding the classification and safety of formaldehyde-releasing compounds.

Commitment to Mentorship and Research Education

In addition to his primary research, Dr Grace is a dedicated mentor. He has co-supervised medical students conducting honours-level research and has acted as an examiner for viva assessments and Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs). His teaching includes simulated clinical skills, applied ultrasound techniques, and the integration of scientific findings into clinical decision-making.

Conclusion

Dr Joseph Grace's research portfolio is distinguished by its depth, clinical relevance, and cross-disciplinary scope. His ongoing contributions to the fields of medical adhesives, phlebology, and regenerative therapies reflect a sustained commitment to scientific excellence, patient safety, and the advancement of evidence-based medicine. Through his work, Dr Grace continues to influence both academic scholarship and front-line clinical practice in vascular medicine.