Hernia dilemma: to fix or not to fix hidden groin hernias?

NCT ID NCT07461558

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at what to do when a surgeon finds a small, hidden hernia on the opposite side during groin hernia repair. Some doctors fix it immediately, others prefer to watch and wait. The trial will randomly assign 380 adults to either immediate repair or monitoring, tracking recovery and quality of life for two years. The goal is to see which approach is safer and more effective.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: surgery (immediate repair of occult hernia) vs. watchful waiting
What this could lead to: If successful, this study could help doctors and patients decide whether to repair a hidden hernia right away or leave it alone, reducing unnecessary surgeries and complications.
What could go wrong: This is a relatively small, early-stage trial (380 participants) comparing two standard approaches, so results may not apply to all patients. The watchful waiting group may still need surgery later.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

hernia, double inguinal

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

INGUINAL HERNIA BILATERAL INGUINAL HERNIA UNILATERAL

Contacts and locations

Locations

Northwestern Memorial Hospital
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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