The Use of Acellular Tissue Matrices in Gender-Affirming Surgery: Review of the Literature and Institutional Experience

Wound healing complications are not uncommon after genital gender-affirming surgery and can pose significant challenges for the reconstructive surgeon. Acellular tissue matrices are products that contain extracellular matrix compounds without living cells and are used to expedite and improve wound healing. Some of these products have been described for a variety of different indications in gender-affirming surgery. In this paper, the authors present a review of the current literature on the use of acellular tissue matrices in gender-affirming surgery as well as the authors' institutional experience in using these products. Postoperative wound complications are not uncommon after genital gender-affirming surgery and can be challenging for the patient and surgeon. In select circumstances, acellular tissue matrix products provide an option for wound closure and soft tissue reinforcement. This study summarizes the current literature on the use of acellular tissue matrices in gender-affirming surgery as well as the authors' institutional experience.image