The Shouldice Repair, a globally recognized technique for inguinal hernia repair, has long been celebrated for its outcomes and patient-centered approach. A new study seeks to clarify the essential steps of this non-mesh tissue repair, as identified by expert surgeons at Shouldice Hospital.

Using the Delphi Methodology, the research achieved consensus on 39 key items grouped into seven overarching steps: preoperative preparation, anesthetic protocol, incision and nerve identification, treatment of cremasteric muscles, hernia identification and treatment, reconstruction of the posterior wall, and postoperative management.

This comprehensive framework provides a step-by-step guide to the Shouldice Method, offering valuable insights for surgeons aiming to incorporate this effective and time-tested approach into their practices.

Read the full consensus report here to explore the intricate details of this renowned hernia repair technique.

The Shouldice repair, first introduced over 70 years ago, remains one of the most successful and enduring techniques for hernia repair. While numerous new procedures have emerged in recent decades, not all have delivered on their initial promise. In contrast, the Shouldice method has maintained its exceptional success rate, even after extensive long-term follow-up.

This article revisits the origins and evolution of the Shouldice repair, a unique, patient-centered technique that has treated over 280,000 hernias since 1945. By combining precise surgical methods, local anesthesia, early ambulation, and a holistic approach to patient care, the Shouldice procedure is designed to provide a repair that lasts a lifetime. Read the full article here for an in-depth look at the technique’s history, its innovative features, and the extensive follow-up data that underscores its continued relevance and success.