Comparing two techniques for closing wounds after abdominal surgery

A Randomized, Controlled Trial Comparing Wound COmplications in Elective Midline Laparotomies After FAscia Closure Using Two Different Techniques of Running Sutures: COFACTOR-trial

Not applicable Interventional American University of Beirut Medical Center · NCT03527433

This study is testing a new way to close wounds after abdominal surgery to see if it reduces the chance of developing hernias compared to the usual method.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment274 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorAmerican University of Beirut Medical Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beirut, Beirut)
Trial IDNCT03527433 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a new closure technique for abdominal surgery wounds compared to the traditional method. It is designed as a randomized, controlled, patient and assessor-blinded trial, focusing on the primary endpoint of incisional hernia occurrence one year post-surgery. The study will be conducted at the American University of Beirut Medical Center, which is a tertiary referral center. Prior to the main trial, a pilot study will assess feasibility, patient adherence, and the reliability of randomization and blinding.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who are scheduled for elective laparotomy through a midline incision.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing emergency surgery or those with prior midline laparotomy or existing hernias may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to reduced wound complications and improved recovery outcomes for patients undergoing abdominal surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar closure techniques, but this trial aims to provide higher quality evidence.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Signed Informed Consent
* Undergoing an elective laparotomy through a midline incision
* Undergoing a midline laparoscopic procedure (midline laparoscopic extraction site)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Emergency surgery
* Laparotomy through an incision other than midline
* Previous midline laparotomy
* Presence of incisional or ventral hernia at time of laparotomy
* Incisional hernia repair
* Laparotomy surgery during pregnancy

Where this trial is running

Beirut, Beirut

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 Wound ComplicationIncisional herniaWound infectionMidline 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.