Top stories in gastroenterology: New benefits to fecal microbiota transplantation, lowering false-positive colorectal cancer screening tests

Among the top stories in gastroenterology last week were two separate studies that detailed potential new benefits — one financial, one treatment-based — of fecal microbiota transplantation.

Other top stories included a study that showed a non-invasive colorectal cancer screening tool based on bacterial fecal biomarkers — when used with a fecal immunochemical test — helped reduce false-positive results, a report on the connection between certain lesions at resection and Crohn’s recurrence and ways to remove the barriers that hinder the effectiveness of endoscopy. – by Janel Miller

Fecal microbiota transplantation spurs ‘huge’ drop in hospital costs for patients with Clostridioides difficile

Patients with recurrent Clostridioides difficile infection on average avoided 17 days of hospitalization in the first year after being treated with fecal microbiota transplantation, according to real-world data. Read more.

Fecal microbiota transplantation safe, effective for Clostridioides difficile infection in pediatric patients

While fecal microbiota transplantation has long been established as a treatment for adult patients with Clostridioides difficile infection, data from a study revealed that it is also safe and effective in pediatric patients. Read more.

Test for bacterial markers reduces fecal immunochemical test T false-positives

A non-invasive colorectal cancer screening tool based on bacterial fecal biomarkers can help reduce false-positive results when used with a fecal immunochemical test, according to study results. Read more

Certain lesions at resection linked to Crohn’s recurrence

Histologic features at the ileal margin were associated with an increased risk for postoperative recurrence of Crohn’s disease, according to study results. Read more.

Video audit improves endoscopy safety protocol adherence

Patient safety is a top priority during endoscopic procedures, but inconsistent use of safety check-ins, known as the Time Out Procedure, puts up barriers to that goal. Read more.