NCT05925959 · Benjamin T. Miller
Preoperative Weight Loss for Open Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
What this study is about
The goal of this randomly assigned controlled trial is to compare preoperative intensive weight management to upfront surgery in obese patients undergoing complex abdominal wall reconstruction. The main question is will abdominal wall specific quality of life (using the HerQLes survey) for the group undergoing upfront surgery be non-inferior compared to the group in the weight management program.
View original scientific description
The goal of this randomized controlled trial is to compare preoperative intensive weight management to upfront surgery in obese patients undergoing complex abdominal wall reconstruction. The main question is will abdominal wall specific quality of life (using the HerQLes survey) for the group undergoing upfront surgery be non-inferior compared to the group in the weight management program.
Interventions
OTHER
Preoperative Weight Management Program
The medical obesity intervention is comprised of monthly visits with an obesity medicine (OM) provider +/- a registered dietitian (in person or virtual). Lifestyle modifications (nutrition, physical activity, stress, sleep), appetite control, and medication side effects will be addressed in all visits. At initial visit, patients will evaluated in person by an OM provider +/- registered dietitian. An individualized intense lifestyle intervention will be implemented with the addition of an anti-obesity medication (phentermine, naltrexone/bupropion, phentermine/topiramate, liraglutide, semaglutide, etc). Medication use will be based on disease risk, patient preference, severity of obesity, contraindications, potential drug interactions and insurance coverage. A diet recommendation will be tailored to the patient's medical and food allergy history. Weight and vital signs will be monitored at each visit. Participants will have a total of 5 follow-up monthly encounters, every 30 +/- 7 days.
Primary outcome measures
Abdominal core health-specific quality of life at 1 year
Time frame: 1 year
This will be measured at 1 year using the HerQLes survey which is scored from 0-100 with higher scores indicating better quality of life.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults having open retromuscular ventral hernia repair with an anticipated posterior component separation with transversus abdominis release and synthetic mesh
- BMI 40-55 kg/m2 and who are not planning to pursue weight loss surgery for any of the following reasons: they are not a candidate for weight loss surgery, cannot pursue weight loss surgery for insurance reasons, or are not interested in pursuing weight loss surgery.
Exclusion criteria
- Lack of English language fluency
- Urgent need for repair as determined by surgeon judgement
- Pregnant patients
- Permanent stoma in place
- Isolated flank hernia
- Anticipated need for staged operation; for example, patients who will undergo a mesh excision separate from definitive reconstruction.
- BMI \<40 or \>55 kg/m2
- Inability to participate in the Obesity Management Program due to lack of insurance coverage or history of mental illness (including eating disorders, schizophrenia, etc.).
- Obstructive symptoms
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
- Cleveland, Ohio
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations