Evaluating the learning curve of the Shouldice hernia repair technique
Evaluation of the Learning Curve of the Shouldice Procedure
Shouldice Hospital · NCT06314802
This study looks at how surgeons get better at the Shouldice hernia repair technique by comparing their first 300 surgeries to their later ones to see if their skills improve and if it leads to fewer complications for patients.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 1600 (estimated) |
| Ages | 16 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Shouldice Hospital (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Thornhill, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06314802 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to assess the learning curve associated with the Shouldice procedure for repairing primary inguinal hernias. By analyzing the operative times and outcomes of surgeons performing their first 300 repairs compared to their 900-1000th, the study seeks to identify how surgical proficiency develops over time. The research will also evaluate complication rates and recurrence rates to provide insights into the effectiveness of the Shouldice technique as surgeons gain experience. Ultimately, this study aims to enhance surgical training and improve patient outcomes in hernia repair.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are surgeons who have performed at least 1000 primary inguinal hernia repairs using the Shouldice technique.
Not a fit: Surgeons who have performed fewer than 1000 primary inguinal hernia repairs using the Shouldice technique will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved surgical training and better patient outcomes for those undergoing Shouldice hernia repairs.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on learning curves for other hernia repair techniques, this specific focus on the Shouldice procedure is relatively novel and underexplored.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * A surgeon, who operated on at least 1000 primary inguinal hernias using the Shouldice technique * Surgeon at the shouldice hospital Exclusion Criteria: * A surgeon, who operated on less than 1000 primary inguinal hernias using the Shouldice technique
Where this trial is running
Thornhill, Ontario
- Shouldice hospital — Thornhill, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Christoph Paasch
- Email: cpaasch@shouldice.com
- Phone: 9058891125
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Groin Hernia, Shouldice Procedure, Inguinal hernia, Shouldice repair, Learning curve