Comparing no opioids to minimal opioids after inguinal hernia repair

No Opioids vs. Minimal Opioids Following Inguinal Hernia Repair

PHASE4 · The Cleveland Clinic · NCT05929937

This study is testing if not giving opioids or giving just a small amount after inguinal hernia surgery helps manage pain just as well for patients.

Quick facts

PhasePHASE4
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment904 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe Cleveland Clinic (other)
Locations6 sites (Fountain Valley, California and 5 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05929937 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether not prescribing opioids after uncomplicated outpatient inguinal hernia repair is as effective as prescribing a minimal amount of opioids in managing postoperative pain. Patients undergoing elective unilateral or bilateral inguinal hernia repairs will be randomly assigned to receive either no opioids or a small prescription of opioids. The study aims to evaluate the need for opioid refills and assess postoperative pain quality of life at 30 days. Data will be collected through the ACHQC database and REDCap® to ensure comprehensive follow-up and analysis.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older undergoing elective inguinal hernia repairs who can tolerate general anesthesia.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain requiring opioids, those unable to tolerate general anesthesia, or those needing extensive surgical procedures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce opioid prescriptions and associated risks while effectively managing postoperative pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in reducing opioid use after similar surgical procedures, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult patients aged 18 years or older
* Patients undergoing elective unilateral or bilateral inguinal hernia repairs
* Patients able to tolerate general anesthesia

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who cannot tolerate general anesthesia,
* Patients who cannot tolerate opioids or NSAIDS,
* Patients on opioids for chronic pain management (defined as near daily use within 90 days),
* Patients who undergo surgeries requiring extensive dissection/hernia sac reduction, or additional procedures,
* Patients requiring inpatient admission postoperatively
* Patients who are not able to understand and sign a written consent form

Where this trial is running

Fountain Valley, California and 5 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Postoperative Pain, Inguinal Hernia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.