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Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
Endoscopic peroral jejunal fecal microbiota transplantation
Alexander Link1, Tim Lachmund1, Christian Schulz1
1Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Infectious Diseases, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
Background:
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a valuable treatment modality for recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) colitis. Multiple questions including the best delivery route and volume remain unanswered. Here, we report a case series of high-volume FMT using endoscopic jejunal application route.
Methods:
In prospective observational study, FMT was performed using fresh specimen from healthy unrelated donors to the patients with recurrent or refractory C. difficile colitis. Selection of the route was based on the patient's preferences. Specimens of at least 50g were dissolved in 500ml of electrolyte solution and administered using endoscope directly in jejunum.
Results:
All procedures led to cure of C. difficile colitis. With exception of one case the procedure was well tolerated. In two cases, we observed FMT-reflux into the stomach despite deep jejunal application and in single case the FMT-reflux led to tracheal aspiration and severe pneumonia.
Conclusions:
High-volume FMT via endoscopic jejunal route is an effective treatment option that is well tolerated and easy to perform. Nevertheless, aspiration is potential life-threatening event that needs to be kept in mind during the FMT-procedure.
Insights
High-volume fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) via endoscopic jejunal route effectively cures recurrent Clostridium difficile colitis. While generally safe, potential aspiration risk requires careful consideration during the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Microbiome Research
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a key treatment for recurrent Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) colitis.
- Optimal FMT delivery route and volume require further investigation.
- This study explores high-volume FMT using an endoscopic jejunal application route.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of high-volume FMT via endoscopic jejunal administration.
- To assess patient tolerance and potential complications associated with this method.
Main Methods:
- A prospective observational study involving FMT from healthy donors to patients with C. difficile colitis.
- Specimens (≥50g in 500ml electrolyte solution) were administered endoscopically into the jejunum.
- Route selection was based on patient preference.
Main Results:
- All FMT procedures resulted in the cure of C. difficile colitis.
- The procedure was well-tolerated in most cases.
- Complications included jejunal reflux into the stomach and one case of tracheal aspiration leading to pneumonia.
Conclusions:
- High-volume endoscopic jejunal FMT is an effective and well-tolerated treatment for C. difficile colitis.
- The procedure is technically straightforward to perform.
- Aspiration is a significant risk that necessitates vigilance during FMT administration.
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