The non-invasive method may be a promising approach for battlingClostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection. Indeed, the use of oral capsules for faecal transplant appears to be as effective as via colonoscopy or through a nasogastric tube, said researchers writing in JAMA.
In their report, investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) report that oral administration of the therapy called faecal microbiota transplant (FMT) in acid-resistant capsules was as successful as more invasive methods in eliminating recurrent diarrhoea caused by C. difficile.
"Numerous reports have shown that FMT is effective in treating active C. difficile infection and preventing recurrences in patients whose infections failed to respond to standard treatments," said Ilan Youngster. "The procedures that have been used before – colonoscopies, nasogastric tubes, even enemas – all have potential risks and discomforts for patients. The use of capsules simplifies the procedure immensely, potentially making it accessible to a greater population."
Source: JAMA