Fecal microbiota transplantation for intestinal rehabilitation after GI bleeding and perforation post–cardiac transplant: a case report

Gastrointestinal complications present a critical challenge following heart transplantation. These issues often stem from multifactorial mechanisms, including immunosuppressive therapy and physiological stress, which compromise mucosal defenses. We report a case of a 53-year-old heart transplant recipient who developed severe gastrointestinal bleeding and perforation due to stress ulcers. Following embolization therapy, the clinical course was further complicated by secondary intestinal cicatricial obstruction, necessitating effective intestinal rehabilitation. To address the resulting malabsorption and facilitate recovery while maintaining immunosuppressive stability, fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) was employed to restore gut microbiota diversity. This intervention successfully promoted intestinal functional recovery. This case offers a practical reference for managing complex post-transplant gastrointestinal complications, highlighting the therapeutic potential of FMT.