Efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy for fistula management: an overview of existing systematic reviews

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

Background Fistulas, abnormal connections between two anatomical structures, significantly impact the quality of life and can result from a variety of causes, including congenital defects, inflammatory conditions, and surgical complications. Stem cell therapy has emerged as a promising alternative due to its potential for regenerative and immunomodulatory effects. This overview of systematic reviews aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of stem cell therapy in managing fistulas, drawing on the evidence available. Methods This umbrella review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology to assess the efficacy and safety of stem cell therapy for treating various types of fistulas. A comprehensive search was performed across multiple electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Register, and Web of Science up to 5 May 2024. Systematic reviews focusing on stem cell therapy for fistulas were included, with data extracted on study design, stem cell types, administration methods, and outcomes. The quality of the reviews was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool, and meta-analyses were conducted using R software version 4.3. Results Nineteen systematic reviews were included in our umbrella review. The stem cell therapy demonstrated by significant improvements in clinical remission rates, with a relative risk (RR) of 1.299 (95% CI: 1.192-1.420). Stem cel

Evidence level

Relatively higher-quality human studies compared with other topics in this database, e.g. multiple RCTs or systematic reviews. This does not mean it is standard or approved care.

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