Ten years of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in India: HCMCT Manipal Hospital marks milestone

It has been a decade since Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT), commonly known as stool transplant therapy, was introduced in India. Since then, this therapy has transformed the lives of numerous patients by addressing chronic diseases linked to dysbiosis. Its applications now extend beyond gastrointestinal and liver disorders, with ongoing research exploring its potential benefits for conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and Autism Spectrum Disorder. In recognition of this milestone, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka organised an event that brought together recipients, donors, and doctors to share their experiences and insights into the therapy’s impact.

FMT in India was pioneered by Dr (Col) Avnish Seth, who performed the country’s first stool transplant on 14 November 2014. Dr Seth has been a key figure at HCMCT Manipal Hospital, where he has led efforts to make FMT a safe and effective treatment option. Under his direction, the hospital has established itself as one of the few centres in India to offer FMT procedures, giving patients who had exhausted other options an opportunity to restore their gut health.

During the session, both donors and patients shared their experiences, highlighting FMT’s effectiveness in addressing underlying microbial imbalances rather than merely managing symptoms. Dr Seth, Chairman of the Manipal Institute of Gastroenterology & Hepato-Biliary-Pancreatic Sciences, commented on the broader significance of FMT: “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 Difficile 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.”

Hospital Director Viji Varghese also spoke on the importance of raising awareness about stool transplants, stating, “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 FMT marks a decade of impact in India, HCMCT Manipal Hospital, Dwarka, remains committed to advancing this therapy, increasing awareness, supporting donor participation, and ensuring access to FMT as a key component of chronic disease management.