This is a phase III, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation (FMT) from healthy subjects to patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
Age ≥ 18 years old.
Cirrhosis defined by standard clinical criteria, ultrasonographic findings and/or histology. Cirrhosis of any etiology may be included except from patients with cirrhosis due to autoimmune hepatitis, and patients with cirrhosis due to cholestatic liver disease can only be included in the study if they present clinical decompensation of cirrhosis (i.e. ascites).
Child-Pugh B or C patients (7- up to 12 points).
Women of child-bearing potential* must have a negative pregnancy test in serum before the inclusion in the study and agree to use highly effective contraceptive methods during the study. Highly effective contraceptive methods will include: intrauterine device, bilateral tubal occlusion, vasectomized partner and sexual abstinence** (only if refraining from heterosexual intercourse during the period of twelve months). Hormonal contraceptive methods will be avoided due to the risk of adverse events and impairment of liver function.
Previous history of gastrointestinal surgery or colorectal cancer.
Patients with previous history of intestinal obstruction or those who are at increased risk of this complication.
Active Clostridium Difficile infection.
Patients on treatment with non-selective beta-blockers for <3 month or without stable doses.