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Fistula treatment

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Posted 12/3/2015 5:36 AM (GMT 0)
I applied to get into this study at the Mayo Clinic a year ago. Unfortunately, I was rejected. My fistula is horseshoe shaped and that doesn't currently qualify. However, I thought I would share this study as I'm sure there are others here who have a fistula that would qualify.

They use stem cells on a fistula plug. The plug holds the stem cells in place while they promote healing. The plug can be placed during an EUA (Exam Under Anesthesia). The stem cells are cultured after removing some of your own fat cells (bonus!).

I sure wish I could do it, but I hope this helps someone else.
http://www.mayoclinic.org/medical-professionals/clinical-updates/digestive-diseases/study-evaluate-stem-cell-fistula-plugs-perianal-crohns
Posted 12/3/2015 1:32 PM (GMT 0)
Oh cool! That is really neat. We tried a plug last year, but the healing never started - the plug just fell out. Seriously the most painful thing I've ever done, and that's saying a lot (it is right in the middle of a bunch of nerves, which had to be stitched through). I will have to give this to my surgeon!
Posted 12/3/2015 4:30 PM (GMT 0)
If I was near Mayo Clinic I would be applying for this! My colorectal surgeon won't even think of doing any further procedures for my fistula since i've had so much inflammation down there. The flap procedure I had completely failed.
Posted 12/3/2015 6:10 PM (GMT 0)
The combo of Capri and flagly helped a ton. Then I did a week of rafaximin that seems to really Heal mine up.
Posted 12/3/2015 7:34 PM (GMT 0)
Man, I wish I could do this too, but I've never had a seton!
Does it say anything about whether they'll take someone with a really old fistula or are they looking for people with new ones?
And miracles, cipro/flagyl is poison and only temporary. I can't even stand that stuff for 3 days. Never again!
Posted 12/3/2015 9:33 PM (GMT 0)
I don't think the age of the fistula matters, just the shape. A seton is required prior to doing the procedure. You could get that done with your local surgeon before going to Mayo or have Mayo do it. I think you need to seton in place for a month prior.

Before doing all that though, I'd make sure you're eligible. If you've had an MRI lately you could have that sent to Mayo for review and they would determine from that if you're a match. Check with your insurance before sending them an MRI to be sure the review cost is covered. If you've not had an MRI, you could get it done at Mayo if you're close.
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