Gel could restore sensation in transgender surgery

NCT ID NCT05897086

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Disease control Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a gel made from polyethylene glycol (PEG) can help nerves heal better after phalloplasty, a surgery that creates a penis for transgender men. Currently, many patients lose sensation in the new organ, causing distress. The gel is applied during surgery to fuse nerve ends and may improve touch and sexual feeling. Thirty adults will be enrolled to see if the treatment leads to better sensory recovery and quality of life.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Polyethylene Glycol 3350 (PEG) applied as a topical irrigation solution
What this could lead to: If it works, this could improve sensation and sexual function after phalloplasty, reducing regret and improving quality of life for transgender men.
What could go wrong: This is an early combined Phase 2/3 trial with only 30 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The gel is new for this use, and nerve healing is complex.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Gender Dysphoria

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

GENDER DYSPHORIA

Contacts and locations

Locations

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, Tennessee, 37232, United States

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