Fifteen applications in 14 patients (3 male, 11 female) with complex anal fistulas treated in three tertiary hospitals in Austria were included between October 2018 and April 2021. Injection of 120 million allogeneic expanded adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (Cx601 - Darvadstrocel, Alofisel®) was performed in each patient. Closure of the external fistula opening without secretion by finger compression was defined as success.
The use of mesenchymal stem cells is considered a novel and promising therapeutic option for patients with perianal fistulizing Crohn's disease. However, due to limited clinical data, this multicentre, nationwide study aimed to assess its clinical efficacy in closing complex anal fistula.