2. An Evaluation of the Safe Use of Acellular Peritoneum Matrix in Rhytidectomy

OBJECTIVE: Acellular peritoneum matrix (APM) is a novel biologic scaffold that can be utilized in various reconstructive procedures. Its distinct composition, including growth factors, proteins, and collagen, promotes cellular regeneration and revascularization to improve healing. Additionally, its structural durability, contour control, and volume enhancement offers great promise for improved outcomes in rhytidectomy. However, the clinical applications of APMs remain underexplored, especially in the head and neck region. Our research aims to elucidate the safety profile of APM use in rhytidectomies. METHODS: We conducted a single-center, retrospective chart review including patients who underwent rhytidectomy between 2021 and 2023. Patients were categorized into two cohorts based on whether APM was used during their procedure. Data was collected on patient characteristics, surgical history, and postoperative complications within one year of surgery. Comparisons were drawn between groups using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: A total of 65 patients were studied, including 44 who received APM during rhytidectomy and 21 who did not. APM patients had a greater age at time of surgery (p = 0.04) and more frequently had a history of prior rhytidectomy (p = 0.02). In the one-year follow up period, the rate of all-cause complications after rhytidectomy for the APM group was 18.2%, which did not significantly differ from the 19.0% complication rate within the control group (p = 0.93). The APM group did not experience higher rates of hematoma (p = 0.96) or cellulitis (p = 0.29). All recorded complications were known to be associated with rhytidectomy. CONCLUSION: The clinical safety of APM use in rhytidectomy is non-inferior to rhytidectomy alone. Among those who experienced complications, it is unlikely these events were directly related to the APM. Proceeding with a greater understanding of the safety of APM use allows us to further characterize the clinical benefits of APM with rhytidectomy. Routine use of APMs may improve rhytidectomy outcomes, increase patient satisfaction, and reduce the need for secondary rhytidectomy or long-term revisions. CORRESPONDING AUTHOR: Imani Elliott, Ann Arbor MI, [email protected]. 313-434-8399