The PAPYRUS Study: Permanent vs. Absorbable Sutures in PrimarY Repair of Umbilical HerniaS: A Multicentre, Single-blind, Non-inferiority, Randomized Controlled Trial

Umbilical hernias can be found in over a quarter of the population and comprise of 15% of hernia repairs performed in Canada. While mesh repair is commonly used for larger hernias, smaller hernia defects are often closed with sutures alone. While non-absorbable sutures may have greater tensile strength, the use of absorbable sutures has been found to reduce the risk for wound infection and improve healing. The objective of this multi-centre, nationwide randomized controlled study is to determine whether there is a difference in hernia recurrence when the repair is completed with absorbable polydioxanone suture versus permanent polypropylene suture. The study will also explore post-operative complications and quality of life. Recruitment will take place over 5 years with follow-up at the 30-day, 12-month and 24-month mark following surgery. The results of this trial will be directly applicable to national and international hernia guidelines and will impact the care of thousands of patients.

NCT Number	NCT07156188
Lead Sponsor	University of British Columbia Collaborators: North York General Hospital, Royal Victoria Hospital Of Barrie, London Health Sciences Centre, University of Alberta
Conditions	Hernia Surgery, Umbilical Hernia Repair
Enrollment	914 participants
Start Date	2026-01-01
Primary Completion	2028-12-31 (estimated)
Study Completion	2030-12-31 (estimated)
Updated on ClinicalTrials.gov	2025-09-30