New Delhi, 15th November 2024: In the ten years since stool transplant therapy, also known as Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT), has been introduced in India, it has transformed the lives of numerous patients by providing an innovative solution for those suffering from chronic diseases associated with dysbiosis, not only for gastrointestinal and liver disorders, but also for Parkinson’s Disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Today, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka celebrated this milestone by bringing together the recipients, donors, and doctors for an interactive session to share experiences and insights on the remarkable impact of stool transplants.

Dr. (Col) Avnish Seth pioneered FMT and performed the first FMT in India on 14th Nov 2014. Over the past few years, he has been an integral part of HCMCT Manipal Hospital, where his expertise has expanded the use of FMT establishing it as a safe and effective treatment. As one of the few hospitals in India offering FMT procedures, Dr Seth has championed this modality to restore gut health for many patients who exhausted all other treatment options, thus giving them a new chance to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

During the interactive session, both the donors and patients shared stories on FMT’s effectiveness in addressing the root cause of complex diseases rather than simply managing symptoms.

Dr. (Col) Avnish Seth, VSM, Chairman, Manipal Institute of Gastroenterology & Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Sciences said, “Stool Transplant or FMT represents a paradigm shift in the treatment of certain gut and liver conditions. By addressing diseases at their microbial roots, this treatment offers hope to patients who once had limited options. Except for treatment of Clostridium Diffcile colitis, FMT for all other disorders should be carried out only as a part of approved research protocols. It is deeply rewarding to witness the recovery journey of patients who have benefitted from FMT, and we are dedicated to continuing to make this transformative therapy available to more individuals in need.”

Speaking on the importance of raising awareness about stool transplant, Viji Varghese, Hospital Director, HCMCT Manipal Hospital Dwarka said, “Our celebration of this milestone is more than a commemoration; it is a call for broader recognition and accessibility of stool transplants across India. We are committed to advancing this innovative treatment and ensuring that it reaches more people who can benefit from it.”

As Fecal Microbiota Transplantation marks a decade of impact in India, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka continues to be at the forefront for advancing the treatment, raising greater awareness, increasing donor participation, and expanding access to FMT as an integral part of chronic disease management.