(203) Cellular Tissue Products: An Update

In 2024, Cellular Tissue products (CTPs) represented more than $5 billion in Medicare spending and their use continues to expand rapidly. More than 200 different products are on the market, comprised of diverse materials ranging from human tissues (e.g., placenta) to synthetic materials. New coverage policies were issued by all Medicare Administrative Contractors around the use of CTPs in diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and venous leg ulcers (VLUs) limiting coverage to a short list of products. However, their use is increasing among patients with pressure injuries, particularly in long term care and among homebound patients. This session will review the various types of CTPs, the claims that can be made based on their FDA clearance, evidence-based use, trends in use, new regulations, and ethical decision making in this controversial area of wound care.