Comparing two methods for closing midline laparotomy incisions to prevent hernias

NoPro - Norwegian Hernia Prophylaxis Study: Onlay Mesh Versus Small Bite Suture Technique Closure of Midline Laparotomies

Not applicable Interventional Sykehuset Innlandet HF · NCT06858020

This study is testing if using a special mesh along with a stitching method can help prevent hernias in people who have had surgery on their abdomen.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorSykehuset Innlandet HF Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hamar)
Trial IDNCT06858020 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This multicenter randomized controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of using a prophylactic polypropylene mesh in addition to the small-bite suture technique for closing midline laparotomy incisions. Conducted across three hospitals in Norway, the study aims to determine whether this combined approach reduces the incidence of incisional hernias compared to the suture technique alone. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two closure methods, and the primary outcome will be the occurrence of incisional hernias one year post-surgery. The study seeks to enhance surgical practices in Norway by providing evidence on the use of prophylactic mesh.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older scheduled for midline laparotomy who can provide informed consent.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of abdominal midline hernia mesh repair or those with certain medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the incidence of incisional hernias in patients undergoing midline laparotomy, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with the use of prophylactic mesh in preventing incisional hernias, but this specific approach has not been widely tested in Norway.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Surgery predominantly done my midline laparotomy
* Age 18 years old or older
* Written consent by patient/family
* Midline laparotomy with delayed closure
* No exclusion criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

* Age under 18 years
* Pregnancy
* Previous abdominal midline hernia mesh repair
* Abdominal compartment syndrome
* Linea alba closure not possible
* Life expectancy under six months
* Hernia in the midline with transverse diameter lager than 2 cm

Where this trial is running

Hamar

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.
Conditions Incisional Hernia After Midline LaparotomyQuality of LifeBurst AbdomenSurgical Site Infectionsprophylactic meshonlayincisional herniamidline laparotomy
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.