Fecal Transplant Procedure
A fecal transplant, also known as fecal bacteriotherapy or fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) have become an accepted and effective method for treating serious and intractable C. Difficile infections.
It is the process of restoring the bacteria commonly found in the digestive tract with an infusion of feces (stool) from a donor. The new stool is mixed with a saline or other solution, strained, and placed in a patient, by colonoscopy, endoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or enema.
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While this may seem like a strange or unpleasant concept, it is important to know that the purpose of fecal transplant is to replace good bacteria that has been killed or suppressed, usually by the use of antibiotics, causing bad bacteria, specifically Clostridium difficile, or C. diff., to over-populate the colon. This infection causes a condition called C. diff. colitis, resulting in often debilitating, sometimes fatal diarrhea.
How the Donor is Selected
For the safety of both the donor and recipient, the medical history of the donor is thoroughly examined, along with their current state of health, and recent blood to detect the possibility of active infections. The donor must be free of infectious diseases, parasitic diseases, yeast overgrowth, celiac disease, and other digestive tract issues that could potentially be transmitted to the recipient.
Preparation for FMT Procedures
The recipient will take a laxative (or an enema) the night beforehand to empty their bowels.
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Make sure to arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure.
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What to Expect During a FMT
An FMT may be performed in a variety of methods. The severity of your digestive disease, your overall health, and personal preference are all factors to determine the most appropriate and successful method for you.
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What to Expect After an FMT
Transplant recipients go home the same day. You may notice diarrhea for a few days, but most people experience relief of gastrointestinal symptoms within 48 hours. Most patients show a healthy bacterial system within 3 months.