Since 1999, thousands of surgeons from around the world have traveled to New Orleans and the Hernia Institute of Louisiana to learn from Dr. Treen. Educating other surgeons on the latest procedures is both an honor and a privilege, and our team looks forward to providing a valuable and enjoyable experience.
Instruction
All training sessions are based upon solid, peer-reviewed, evidence-based research and clinical outcomes analysis. To ensure a personalized program, attendees are typically limited to no more than 5 surgeons per symposium session.
Dr. Treen performs all procedures using a high-definition video monitor for close-up live cases. Attendees are provided with a DVD of the most common procedures for subsequent review after returning home. They are encouraged to communicate with Dr. Treen via email for any future questions or specific review.
Instruction is offered in multiple formats, including didactic PowerPoint presentations covering historical perspectives, anatomy, and the pathophysiology of hernias, as well as a review of current methodologies. A critical analysis of biomaterial-host tissue interactions and available outcome data is presented, with supporting literature citations. Technique instruction is offered with a combination of live direct surgical observation in the operating room and a selection of recorded case material.
What to Expect
Surgeons typically arrive in New Orleans on Thursday evening and are our guests at one of our finest hotels. Dinner suggestions are among our favorite offerings; just let us know your arrival time and culinary preferences in advance. We’ll take care of the rest.
Ground transportation from the hotel is arranged for arrival at St. Charles Surgical Hospital at 6:45 AM, with a hot breakfast and coffee waiting. Didactic instruction in our conference room lasts about 90 minutes, followed immediately by live case observation.
A typical course of instruction includes inguinal hernia repair, umbilical hernia repair, and laparoscopic ventral/incisional hernia repair. Requests for specific live case material can often be accommodated with advance notice. Additional didactic instruction for other repair techniques, including component separation, biologic mesh indications, and unusual or complex abdominal wall reconstruction, is offered as time and individual interest permit.
Depending on your interests and the attractions of the Big Easy, many attendees choose to stay in New Orleans for the entire weekend; otherwise, airport departure is provided directly from the hospital.
Opportunities for surgical education are generously provided through the Professional Education Division of Ethicon and Johnson & Johnson. Surgeons interested in attending one of our symposia are encouraged to contact their local Ethicon hernia repair representative.
Why Choose the Hernia Institute of Louisiana for Surgeon Education in Metairie?
The Hernia Institute of Louisiana offers surgeon education guided by Dr. David C. Treen, a respected leader whose work has shaped modern hernia repair. His surgical refinements are used worldwide, and his long history as a visiting professor and invited lecturer has earned recognition across the international surgical community. With decades of experience, academic appointments, and service on the Board of Governors of the American Hernia Society, Dr. Treen provides insight grounded in real expertise.
Learn More About Our Surgeon Education Program
If you’re considering advancing your hernia repair skills through focused, hands-on education, the Hernia Institute of Louisiana offers a setting designed to support meaningful learning and real-world application.
Our team is ready to answer questions and help you plan your visit. For details about upcoming symposia or participation requirements, contact the Hernia Institute of Louisiana at 504-218-4922.