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.

Abstract

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.

Related Concept Videos

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management01:21

Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management

Surgical interventions for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are essential in managing symptoms and addressing complications. The selection of surgical procedures is contingent upon the specific conditions and complications that stem from these illnesses.
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
808
Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS01:17

Drugs for Treatment of Diarrhea-Predominant IBS

Diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D) is a subtype of IBS characterized primarily by frequent, loose, or watery stools, abdominal pain, and abdominal discomfort. Therapeutic approaches to managing IBS-D include dietary changes, stress management techniques, and pharmaceutical interventions.
Two specific drugs used in the treatment are alosetron (Lotronex) and eluxadoline (Viberzi). Alosetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, works by slowing the movement of stools in the gut, reducing bowel...
836
What is Monogastric Digestion?01:50

What is Monogastric Digestion?

The human body contains a monogastric digestive system. In a monogastric digestive system, the stomach only contains one chamber in which it digests food. Several other animal species also have monogastric digestive systems, including pigs, horses, dogs, and birds. This chapter, however, focuses on the human digestive system.
77.2K
Enteral Nutrition II: Nasointestinal and Gastrostomy Feeding01:15

Enteral Nutrition II: Nasointestinal and Gastrostomy Feeding

Enteral nutrition encompasses various methods of delivering nutrition directly to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, bypassing traditional oral intake. It is particularly beneficial for patients who cannot eat by mouth but have a functioning digestive system. Key methods include nasointestinal feeding, gastrostomy, and jejunostomy, each suited to different clinical scenarios based on the patient's needs and condition.
Nasointestinal Feeding
Nasointestinal feeding involves placing a tube...
1.5K
Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine01:29

Bacterial Flora of the Large Intestine

The gut microbiome is formed by a vast and diverse community of bacteria that colonizes our large intestine. These bacteria start residing in the gut from birth and continue diversifying throughout life, influenced by factors such as diet, lifestyle, and stress. The gut bacterial community also includes bacteria from food and those that enter the colon through the anus.
The normal gut flora of the colon plays a critical role in generating essential vitamins such as vitamins K, B5, and B7.
1.8K
Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy01:30

Inflammatory Bowel Disease III: Diagnostic Studies and Management I-Nutritional Therapy

Various diagnostic tests are employed in the diagnostic process for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), particularly to differentiate between Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.
Diagnostic studies
A colonoscopy is the definitive screening test, distinguishing ulcerative colitis from other colon diseases with similar symptoms. During a colonoscopy test, inflamed mucosa with exudate ulcerations can be observed, and biopsies are taken to determine the histologic characteristics of the...
1000