Shouldice Hospital, the world leader in hernia repair since 1945 Our History: A Tradition of Excellence

Shouldice Hospital was established in 1945 by Dr. Edward Earle Shouldice (1890-1965), inventor of the Shouldice repair. Dr. Shouldice developed his innovative technique during World War II, to help young men who were unable to enlist in the military because of their hernias. His unique repair method improved surgical results and reduced recovery time, quickly restoring the young recruits to physical fitness for military training.

As news of Dr. Shouldice’s success spread, there was a growing demand for hernia surgery. But doctors and hospital space were scarce after the war and wait times for surgery were long. Dr. Shouldice responded to the problem by founding his own hospital.
Founding Shouldice Hospital

Shouldice Hospital opened with a single operating room and a waiting list of 300 eager patients. Working with only a nurse, secretary and cook for support, Dr. Shouldice repaired two hernias a day. Requests for his remarkable surgery grew and the hospital soon expanded, adding more staff and more buildings. In 1953, Dr. Shouldice purchased a beautiful country estate in Thornhill, Ontario, just minutes from downtown, which eventually became the hospital’s new home.
A world-class institution

Today, two generations later, Shouldice Hospital has grown far beyond its early beginnings to become the world’s leading centre of excellence for hernia repair. Dr. Shouldice’s son, Dr. Byrnes Shouldice, and daughter, Mrs. W.H. Urquhart continued their father’s legacy. Dr. Byrnes Shouldice followed in his father’s footsteps as a surgeon at Shouldice in 1961 and is currently President and Chairman of the Board. Mrs. W.H. Urquhart has been involved in management as Vice President and director on the board since the hospital was founded, along with her husband, the late William Urquhart, President and Chairman of the board until his demise in 1998. With the support and guidance of the founder’s son and daughter and their respective families, Shouldice has developed into a modern, 89-bed facility, with five specialized operating suites, an expert team of hernia surgeons and nurses, and a dedicated staff of about 150 people, all working to meet the needs of patients with hernias.

Looking to the future

Ideally suited to deliver exceptional results for hernia patients, Shouldice continues to reflect the progressive outlook and traditional values of its founder. Our 99.5% success rate in hernia surgery has long been the benchmark for medical professionals internationally. Shouldice’s reputation has been built on an holistic approach to patient care and its philosophy continues to emphasize the well-being of mind and body as the key to a healthy recovery. Over the years, skilled and innovative surgeons have refined the Shouldice repair, ensuring that at Shouldice Hospital, surgical procedures meet the highest standards in medical care.

For well over half a century, the Shouldice name has been synonymous with excellence in hernia repair and we are committed to maintaining that tradition of quality and service in the years ahead.