Research progress of stem cell transplantation in the treatment of anal fistula.

Stem cell transplantation has emerged as a promising therapeutic modality for the treatment of anal fistulas, showing significant potential in addressing this challenging condition. This review aims to summarize the latest research advancements in the field of stem cell therapy for anal fistula, focusing on the underlying mechanisms that contribute to healing, the clinical applications that have been explored in various studies, and the assessment of therapeutic efficacy. Despite these encouraging results, several issues remain, including the optimal source of stem cells, methods of administration, and long-term outcomes. The review will also discuss future research directions, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and larger-scale clinical trials to establish the safety and effectiveness of stem cell transplantation in routine clinical practice.