Systematic review and meta-analysis of the efficacy and safety of stem cell treatment of anal fistulas.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Since anal fistulas can be challenging to treat; numerous innovative treatments have been proposed, including stem cell therapy. This systematic review aimed to assess pooled rates of fistula healing and adverse events associated with stem cell treatment.

Methods

In this PRISMA-compliant systematic review we searched PubMed and Scopus for observational and randomized studies reporting outcomes of stem cell treatment for anal fistulas. The main outcome measures were successful healing and adverse effects of stem cell therapy.

Results

In total, 43 studies incorporating 1160 patients (53.6% male) were included. Underlying fistula etiologies were Crohn's disease (30 studies) and cryptoglandular disease (12 studies). The main origin of stem cells was from adipos

SUBMITTER: Emile SH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11982159 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature