Fecal transplantation

Fecal transplantation is an innovative method of treating diseases of the gastrointestinal tract organs

Transplantation of faecal microbiota from a healthy person is a very unusual, but really effective method of treating some intestinal diseases. Fecal microbiota transplantation was first used in China, back in 1958, to treat various types of diarrhoea. Currently, the main indication for faecal transplantation is a recurrent form of antibiotic-associated colitis caused by the bacterium Clostridium Difficile.

The influence of antimicrobial agents in some cases leads to persistent and pronounced disorders of the intestinal microbial landscape, against which the growth of pathogenic bacterium Cl. Difficile is activated. Difficile. The consequence of colonisation of this bacterium is the development of a severe specific inflammatory process in the intestine, leading to the development of pain syndrome and debilitating diarrhoea. The arsenal of drugs used for the treatment of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea caused by Cl. Difficile is very limited. Until recently, the failure of therapies has left specialists in a quandary and the patient's life vulnerable. According to experts studying faecal transplantation, the indication for the procedure is 3 exacerbations of antibiotic-associated diarrhoea occurring with standard therapy.

Fecal transplantation: what is the essence of the treatment?

The therapeutic effect of faecal transplantation is that the faecal microbiota of a healthy person effectively repopulates the patient's intestines, displacing Cl. Difficile. In the vast majority of cases, this method of treatment is not accompanied by complications and gives very good results.

To date, the method of faecal transplantation has been approved by the FDA and is still being actively studied by specialists in various fields. Clinical studies have shown that faecal transplantation from a healthy person has a positive therapeutic effect also in some other inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn's disease and non-specific ulcerative colitis), irritable bowel syndrome and even in obesity.

Fecal transplantation: where and how is the procedure performed?

We offer faecal transplantation in leading clinics abroad. Highly qualified specialists, the ‘pioneers’ of this treatment method, perform the procedure with a high level of professionalism and safety. Transplant preparation, insertion technique and further monitoring of the patient's condition are carried out in the clinic according to internationally accepted protocols.

Fecal transplantation: who can be a donor?

Any person approved by the patient can become a potential donor of faecal microbiota. In most cases, it is a close relative: spouse or sexual partner. Before the transplantation procedure, the donor is examined. The standard list of laboratory tests includes a test for Clostridium difficile carriage (PCR), stool culture for pathogenic group, examination for helminths, HIV infection, hepatitis A, B and C. An important condition is to stop taking antibacterial drugs, systemic corticosteroids and anticancer drugs at least three months before the procedure. Individuals with autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndrome and chronic pain syndrome are not suitable as donors.

Fecal transplantation: how is the procedure performed?

Prepared faecal microbiota is introduced into the patient's gastrointestinal tract, more often during a colonoscopy procedure, less often by means of a nasoduodenal tube. General recommendations for patients are the following: discontinuation of antibiotic therapy 2 days before the procedure, adherence to diet (liquid nutrition) before the procedure and cleansing the intestine with an enema. Before the transplantation, the patient is examined by a doctor and, if necessary, undergoes laboratory tests. The colonoscopy is performed under anaesthesia.

Fecal transplantation: are there any side effects?

In the vast majority of cases, severe side effects after faecal transplantation did not occur. In some cases, stool upset for several days and flatulence have been described.

If you have any questions about faecal transplantation, please contact MedicalExpert managers.