Purpose of Fecal Microbiota Transplants

Question

How does a fecal matter transplant actually work?

Answer

An FMT or fecal microbiota transplant is a medical procedure, that involves the transplantation of qualified fecal matter into a necessary recipient.

Before the procedure, the prospective donor is tested to ensure their donation is viable and appropriate for the transplantation. The donation itself is normally produced with the intention of replacing useful bacteria that is destroyed with the overuse of anti-biotics, issues which are known collectively as Clostridium Difficile Infections or CDI. By replacing the useful bacteria lost during the use of anti-biotics with donor bacteria, the natural balance of good bacteria can be restored, as their flourishing limits the growth of any more harmful bacteria.

The fecal matter is not directly transplanted into the recipient, but is first mixed or strained to provide that only the useful material is present. It is then combined with saline or other compatible solution and transplanted into the recipient through a medical procedure, such as sigmoidoscopy or endoscopy.

There have also been reported new developments for the use of FMT’s in the aiding of people who suffer from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Chrohn’s Disease, amongst others, although the research in these test areas is still in its infancy.

It is important to note that FMT is still considered an experimental procedure by most practitioners due to its usefulness being disputed. However, as the procedure is low-cost/risk there are huge benefits that could be achieved if more of the appropriate resources were dedicated to resolving issues with the treatment.

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