Perianal fistulas in people with Crohn’s Disease can be extremely debilitating, causing intense pain and discomfort and meaning even simple activities such as sitting down can be difficult.
Currently there are limited treatment options for complex perianal fistulas in adults with non-active/mild Crohn’s Disease who have already tried conventional therapies (e.g. immunosuppressants / antibiotics) or biological therapies (e.g. infliximab / adalimumab) and found these have not worked for them.
Therefore, we are disappointed that the SMC has chosen not to recommend this innovative stem cell treatment which could offer hope for those affected.
People with perianal fistulas often need to have multiple surgeries as part of the healing process. This can have a huge impact both physically and psychologically. Furthermore, surgery involves risks including recurring symptoms and faecal incontinence.
The SMC has chosen not to recommend Darvadstrocel as there was not strong enough evidence from the manufacturer that the medicine is cost effective. For more information on their decision, please see the SMC website.
- Find out more information about living with a fistula.