What are Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FDIG)?
Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are characterized by persistent and recurring gut symptoms. These occur as a result of abnormal functioning of the GI tract. They are not caused by structural (tumors or masses) or biochemical abnormalities. As a result, many routine medical tests attempting to diagnose an FGID — such as x-rays, CT scans, blood tests and endoscopic exams can have essentially normal/negative (non-disease) results. More than 20 functional GI disorders have been identified. They can affect any part of the GI tract, including the esophagus, stomach, bile duct and/or intestines.
How are FGIDs diagnosed?
Because routine tests like x-rays, CT scans and others used for diagnosing organic disorders are generally negative for people with FGIDs, diagnosing these disorders cannot be based on test results. As a result, the diagnosis of a functional GI disorder can be made when a patient’s combination of symptoms and other factors meet the Rome criteria for a specific functional disorder.
Why consider Human Microbiota Transplant (HMT) for relief of symptoms related to Functional Gastrointestinal Disorder?
FGID is a complex GI condition with multiple factors, including hypersensitivity, altered brain-gut interaction, inflammation, and imbalance of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis). Because the gut microbiota are associated with symptoms in some FGID patients, HMT may be helpful in helping relieve the symptoms of FGID, as evidenced through other fecal transplant studies for IBS, which include results ranging from 36% resolution to 64% resolution after HMT. In the most recent clinical trial on IBS, more than 60% of IBS patients showed an improvement of their symptoms after fecal microbiota transplantation.3
What does the Hong Kong HMT programme involved?
Our centre works closely with renowned gastroenterologists in the region. Our HMT treatment programme is based on protocols from our GI specialist advisors, while taking into account the specific needs of the individual. Our programme is designed to help you get relief and long-term benefit from the symptoms of your condition by restoring the balance of microbiota in your gut.
- Patients will undergo HMT implants on five consecutive days, or on two sets of five consecutive days (10 days total) over a period of 2-3 weeks.
- HMT implants may be delivered via enema, capsules oral formulation, or colonoscopy (additional fees required)
- Prior to undergoing HMT therapy, individuals will undergo a bowel preparation consisting of either standard bowel prep or colonic water lavage.
Important note
The goal of Human Microbiota Transplant (HMT) is to help rebalance the gut microbiota, which may alleviate some of the symptoms of a GI-related condition. Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a medical condition, which should be treated underneath the supervision of a medical doctor. Any adjustment to medication or prescriptions must be discussed with your supervising doctor. It is essential, therefore, for clients to obtain a referral letter before symptom-specific treatment can begin.