Pediatric Gastroenterology

Advanced Techniques to Treat Pediatric Gastroenterology Disorders

The pediatric gastroenterology team at Loyola Medicine provides diagnostic and treatment services for children with gastrointestinal (GI), liver, nutrition and pancreatic diseases.

We know that the health of a child affects the entire family. The goal of Loyola’s pediatric gastroenterologists is to improve your child’s quality of life through prompt diagnosis and comprehensive treatment, while also providing support, guidance and education to parents and caregivers.

Loyola’s team of board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists provides expert care for children and adolescents, from initial diagnosis and treatment to long-term management of your child’s condition.

Digestive tract diseases and other problems treated include:

Your child’s integrated healthcare team includes pediatricians, dietitians, behavioral therapists, imaging specialists, social workers, surgeons, nurse practitioners and other clinicians to provide the best possible care for your child.

Why Choose Loyola for Pediatric Gastroenterology?

Loyola is committed to the comprehensive diagnosis and care of our youngest patients with gastrointestinal disorders. Our board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists use the most advanced techniques to treat or manage your child’s GI condition.

We offer high-tech diagnostic procedures to better understand GI problems, including the “pill camera” or capsule endoscopy. Loyola’s pediatric gastroenterology team is specially trained in the treatment of children and provides care in a compassionate, family-friendly environment.

Our team understands the particular developmental needs of children and ensures that each child receives comprehensive, individualized care. Loyola’s clinicians welcome families to be involved in all aspects of diagnosis, treatment and recovery; they are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you might have.

At Loyola, we understand the importance of continuity of care and we will provide seamless communication with your child’s pediatrician through our secure medical information portal, LoyolaConnect. You can also access results from your child’s lab tests and evaluations through myLoyola.

How are Pediatric Gastrointestinal Conditions Diagnosed?

Children with gastrointestinal (GI) problems often complain of abdominal or rectal pain and may experience constipation, diarrhea, gas, bloating or rectal bleeding.

The goal of Loyola’s pediatric gastroenterology specialists is to provide a diagnosis and a comprehensive treatment plan for your child as soon as possible.

In order to determine and understand the cause of your child’s symptoms, your child’s doctor will start with your child’s medical history and a complete physical exam. Your child’s doctor may also perform tests that include:

How are Pediatric Gastrointestinal Conditions Treated?

Once your child’s gastroenterologist has reached a diagnosis, your child’s healthcare team will create a customized treatment plan tailored to your child and his or her condition. Loyola offers a full range of less-invasive therapies, including:

• Antacids
• Elimination of foods
• Laxatives
• Nutrition and diet counseling
• Prescription medication, including antibiotics and corticosteroids
• Probiotics
• Stress reduction

Some conditions may require more invasive measures, which may include:

• Antegrade colonic enema
• Colectomy and proctocolectomy
• Kidney transplant or liver transplant
• Removal of bowel obstruction
• Removal of cancerous tumors
• Removal of intestinal polyps or fistulas
• Surgery for GERD or ulcerative colitis

Whenever possible, your child’s surgeon will recommend a minimally invasive procedure instead of an open surgery. This means smaller scars, a shorter hospital stay and a quicker recovery time for your child.

Ongoing Research to Improve Treatment for Pediatric Gastrointestinal Disorders

Loyola’s pediatric gastroenterology experts are actively engaged in research to improve diagnosis and treatment of Crohn’s disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, celiac disease and other pediatric GI issues.