Study of Small versus Large Stitch Techniques for Closing the Abdomen After Kidney Transplant to Reduce Incisional Hernia

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the impact of different abdominal wall closure techniques on the occurrence of incisional hernias in patients undergoing kidney transplantation. Incisional hernias, which are swellings at the site of surgical scars, can cause serious complications, especially for transplant patients who are at higher risk due to their underlying conditions and immunosuppressive medications. This study aims to assess whether using smaller, more frequent stitches reduces hernia formation compared to traditional larger stitches, with the goal of improving outcomes and reducing complications after transplant surgery. The study has two phases. The first phase involves a retrospective review of hernia cases over the past decade to identify risk factors. The second phase is a prospective, randomized, double-blinded trial comparing the small stitches technique with the large stitches method for abdominal wound closure after kidney transplantation. Both kidney transplant recipients and living donor nephrectomy patients will be involved, with blood and tissue samples collected to study biological markers related to hernia risk. Quality of life and pain will also be assessed at various points after surgery. Participants will be monitored for one year after their transplant surgery. Researchers will evaluate the incidence of incisional hernias through clinical and radiological assessments, along with tracking post-operative complications, pain levels, length of hospital stay, and quality of life at one week, six months, and twelve months. Blood and tissue samples will be anonymized and analyzed for collagen and serum markers that might indicate hernia risk. The study is conducted at a single center and includes both retrospective data review and prospective clinical follow-up.

The Impact of Abdominal Wall Closure Technique on Incidence of Incisional Hernia in Kidney Transplantation