# Video-based Collaborative Learning to Improve Ventral Hernia Repair

> **NIH AHRQ R01** · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · 2020 · $391,867

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Hernias of the abdominal wall are among the most common surgical disorders, with over
350,000 patients requiring repair annually for a total cost of $3.2 billion. Despite their
prevalence, outcomes remain poor and variable, with recurrence rates that range between 32%
and 63% at 10 years and a 5-fold difference in recurrence rates between surgeons.1 With the
introduction of new repair techniques and continuous advances in biomedical devices and
technology, it is difficult for practicing surgeons to stay abreast of new developments and
incorporate these advances into their practice. Collaborative learning through video review can
support continuous professional development and aid practicing surgeons in adopting new
approaches and continually improving their own technical skills.
Surgeons have limited time to invest in surgical quality improvement despite recognizing its
importance. A critical gap in our current knowledge is the optimal approach to video-based
collaborative learning. We therefore propose to compare the effectiveness of two approaches to
video review and performance feedback: synchronous surgical coaching versus asynchronous
feedback. This study will be performed in partnership with the Americas Hernia Society Quality
Collaborative (AHSQC). Surgeons will be paired with a coach and will participate in
collaborative review of ventral hernia repairs. Participants will be randomized to undergo in-
person coaching or asynchronous feedback utilizing a web-based video platform (Surgus™) or
will be assigned to a wait-list control group. All participants will submit 2 procedural videos pre-
and post-intervention for self-assessment and blinded expert review utilizing a previously
validated assessment instrument to measure technical skill. Our primary outcome is change in
30-day procedural outcomes, which are captured and risk adjusted in the AHSQC. Patients will
also be followed for 2 years to assess long-term recurrence rates. Other secondary outcomes
include intervention adherence, time spent in review, and the perceived value of the different
approaches.
These interventions will have immediate impact. Working with the AHSQC, we can improve
quality and decrease costs for the 350,000 patients that require a ventral hernia repair annually.
In addition, this will provide a new paradigm for surgical quality improvement and continuing
professional development.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9965907
- **Project number:** 5R01HS025989-03
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- **Principal Investigator:** Caprice Christian Greenberg
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** AHRQ
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $391,867
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2018-09-01 → 2021-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9965907

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9965907, Video-based Collaborative Learning to Improve Ventral Hernia Repair (5R01HS025989-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9965907. Licensed CC0.

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