TCGA - Journals & Publications

Robotic Gender-Affirming Surgery Textbook Chapter | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:41:32 GMT

In a chapter from Principles and Practice of Robotic Surgery, Alex J. Xu, MD, Kirtishri Mishra, and Lee C. Zhao, MD, provide a comprehensive overview of how robotic-assisted techniques are transforming gender-affirming surgery. The chapter explores how the robotic platform's enhanced visualization and precision benefit procedures like vaginoplasty and vaginectomy, helping surgeons achieve better outcomes with less impact on patients' bodies. Dr. Xu's contribution reflects a continued commitment to advancing the surgical techniques that support patients throughout their gender-affirming journey.

The Future of Transmasculine Genital Surgery | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:38:58 GMT

Featured in Current Opinion in Urology, this review by Alex J. Xu, MD, and colleagues surveys emerging developments in tissue substitutes and transplantation for masculinizing gender-affirming genital surgery, including the evolving role of genitourinary transplantation. The article considers both the promise and the technical hurdles of applying these approaches to gender-affirming care, offering a forward-looking perspective on where the field may be headed. Dr. Xu's research reflects a continued commitment to expanding what's possible for transmasculine patients.

Gender-Affirming Genital Surgery Techniques Review | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:35:16 GMT

Published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, this narrative review by Samantha E. Pope and colleagues, including Alex Xu, MD, outlines major reconstructive and gender-affirming techniques in genital surgery, with a focus on the perioperative considerations that surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other members of the care team should understand ahead of these procedures. The review underscores the importance of coordinated, informed care across every specialty involved in a patient's surgical journey. Dr. Xu's contributions help ensure gender-affirming care is grounded in both surgical precision and whole-team understanding.

The Future of Transfeminine Genital Surgery | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:33:03 GMT

Published in Current Opinion in Urology, this review by Alex J. Xu, MD, and colleagues surveys emerging developments in tissue substitutes and uterine transplantation for transfeminine gender-affirming genital surgery. The article examines how advances like off-the-shelf xenografts may offer safe alternatives to traditional autografts for neovaginal reconstruction, while also considering the technical and ethical questions surrounding uterine transplantation as a future option. Dr. Xu's research reflects a continued commitment to expanding what's possible for transfeminine patients.

Urethral Lengthening in Phalloplasty | Dr. Xu Review

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:30:58 GMT

In a review published in the International Journal of Reconstructive Urology, Alex J. Xu, MD, and coauthors examine current surgical approaches to urethral lengthening, a key component of gender-affirming phalloplasty for transmasculine patients who wish to urinate while standing. The review compares staged and single-stage techniques and highlights strategies to reduce common complications, such as strictures and fistulas, at the urethral connection point. Dr. Xu's work supports a growing body of evidence guiding safer, more consistent outcomes in genital reconstruction.

Fish Skin Xenograft in Revision Vaginoplasty | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:27:37 GMT

Published in the International Braz J Urol, this study by Alex J. Xu, MD, and colleagues examines the use of decellularized fish skin xenograft to help correct complications in patients who require revision vaginoplasty. The findings offer new guidance for surgeons addressing canal narrowing and other challenges after initial gender-affirming surgery, supporting more reliable, long-term outcomes for patients pursuing revision care. Dr. Xu's research continues to advance surgical techniques that give patients confidence in both their results and their care team.

Robotic TAPCap Vaginoplasty With Fish Skin Graft | Dr. Xu

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 16:25:49 GMT

In a study published in Translational Andrology and Urology, Alex J. Xu, MD, and colleagues at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center introduce the "tubularized augmented peritoneal cap" (TAPCap) technique, a robotic-assisted approach for primary gender-affirming vaginoplasty that incorporates a decellularized fish skin xenograft to help build the neovaginal canal. Reviewing outcomes from more than thirty patients, the study reports encouraging early results for a technique designed to reduce dependence on limited natal tissue and support lasting, functional outcomes. This work reflects Dr. Xu's ongoing contributions to expanding surgical options in gender-affirming care.

LGBTQ-Inclusive Urologic Care: Dr. Xu's National Survey

Admin — Mon, 12 Oct 2026 14:44:45 GMT

In a study published in Urology, Alex J. Xu, MD, and colleagues surveyed urology faculty and residents nationwide to assess practice patterns, attitudes, and knowledge base surrounding the care of LGBTQ patients. The results show that while most urologists recognize LGBTQ patients may require tailored care, many still lack consistent practices, such as routinely asking about sexual orientation, that would help close this gap. The study's findings were also featured in Urology Times and UroToday, underscoring its relevance to the broader field. Dr. Xu's research marks an important step toward a more informed, inclusive urology workforce.