Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

ImunoMedica Clinic provides the option of fecal microbiota transplantation, also known as fecal microbiota transplant (FMT), for patients grappling with severe microbiome imbalances. This procedure can be a lifesaving solution for many conditions, as it enriches the intestinal bacterial flora of an ailing individual with microbial flora obtained from the fecal matter of a healthy donor. While this therapy may have rudimentary roots dating back to 16th-century China, it has seen remarkable success in hospitals worldwide in recent decades, especially in combatting Clostridium, where FMT therapy boasts a remarkable success rate exceeding 90%.

Clinical research on fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has flourished in recent years, with thousands of studies demonstrating the efficacy of this therapeutic intervention in various diseases that, until recently, were not thought to be caused or exacerbated by intestinal dysbiosis.

Donor Selection

Donors for fecal microbiota transplantation are meticulously selected in accordance with current guidelines. They undergo a comprehensive battery of tests and provide detailed lifestyle information. Additionally, they receive regular health assessments and nutritional counseling to enhance the richness of their microbiota.

Anaerobically Filtered Microbiota Transplantation

At ImunoMedica Clinic, we employ a sophisticated process for fecal microbiota transplantation that includes extensive filtration and selection, rather than using unfiltered fecal matter. This process involves utilizing specialized filters and centrifugation techniques to reduce particle sizes to less than one micron. Through anaerobic filtration, undigested or unprocessed food, bile waste, residual blood cells, and other toxins are meticulously removed, ensuring that the microbial flora administered to the recipient is enriched while preserving anaerobic bacteria.

Preservation Protocols

Microbiota is diligently preserved at -80°C until the time of administration, as studies confirm that this is the most effective long-term preservation method for intestinal flora bacteria. Implants of thawed fecal microbiota have been shown to be just as effective as fresh material. The optimal temperature is achieved within a few hours using 37°C water baths, maintaining the viability of bacteria.

Preservation of Anaerobic Bacteria

Anaerobic bacteria, which play a crucial role in maintaining microbiome health and represent the majority of the microbiome, cannot survive for extended periods in the presence of oxygen. Therefore, we employ anaerobic techniques from the moment of donation through processing, storage, and delivery. This includes the use of AnaeroGen bags, deoxygenated water during material processing, and workstations maintained under anaerobic conditions, as outlined in guidelines.

Eligibility for Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

To be eligible for fecal microbiota transplantation, clinical signs of intestinal dysbiosis must be present, along with confirming test results such as serum or fecal Zonulin, Calprotectin, secretory IgA in feces, or microbiome assessment using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology, currently the most advanced method available. Conditions such as intestinal inflammation, leaky gut, or dysbiosis detected through these tests qualify individuals for fecal microbiota transplantation. All necessary diagnostic tests for potential dysbiosis can be conducted at ImunoMedica Clinic.

Procedure

Preparation for fecal microbiota transplantation is undertaken as per the doctor's recommendation, including intestinal cleansing the evening before and hydrocolonotherapy at ImunoMedica Clinic.
The procedure involves rectal instillation of the solution containing concentrated intestinal microbial flora, followed by a 20-minute period of rest. It is advisable to retain the transplant for a minimum of 6 hours until the next bowel movement. As per guidelines, 2 to 4 mg of Loperamide are administered 30 minutes before the transplant to facilitate retention. The procedure is painless, and adverse effects are minimized through the purification of intestinal flora.

Nourishing and Sustaining a Healthy Microbiome

Our medical professionals offer nutritional guidance to our patients, assisting them in adopting a diet and lifestyle conducive to nourishing and cultivating a healthy microbiome. Additionally, given the close connection between the microbiome and the brain, both through the vagus nerve and the multitude of metabolites produced by intestinal bacteria, it is advisable to mitigate stress, especially during the transplant period, to promote the stabilization of a healthy microbiome."