Frozen faecal microbiota transplantation for recurrent clostridium difficile infection
Please note that this innovation is not yet available.
What is the problem?
Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a bowel infection that causes diarrhoea. It can be a serious, life threatening condition.
CDI can occur in patients undergoing antibiotic treatment, in particular those on broad-spectrum antibiotics. This is because some antibiotics can interfere with the balance of bacteria in the bowel. However, CDI can easily spread to others. People over 65, patients with weakened immune systems and those with bowel conditions are at an increased risk.
CDI is becoming more frequent and the rates of severe cases are growing.
According to the available evidence, what is the suggested solution?
Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is becoming increasingly accepted as an effective and safe intervention in patients with recurring CDI. FMT is the provision of a screened specially prepared stool administered via a nasal tube into the intestine to restore the balance of bacteria in the gut. It is a NICE recommended treatment for chronic CDI and an effective alternative to antibiotic treatment at a comparable cost. FMT has been shown to reduce length of stay.
High cure rates (90%) and reduced use of antibiotics equal a win-win for patients and the NHS.
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You can read more about the evidence base for FMT under the related links on the right.
Where can I find out more about implementation?
You can read a case study from Wessex AHSN about faecal microbiota transplantation on the AHSN Network website.
