Pediatric GI, Liver and Nutrition Specialty Programs
Specialty programs within the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition provide world-class pediatric care while offering faculty, staff, fellows and trainees the hands-on experiences needed to drive professional growth and clinical excellence.
Multidisciplinary and Advanced Diagnostic Programs
The Aerodigestive Program provides integrated care for common and complex conditions affecting the airway, respiratory and digestive systems. Because these systems are highly interconnected, a team of gastroenterology, pulmonology and otolaryngology specialists uses a holistic approach to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Program Highlights
- Treatment of asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and swallowing and feeding disorders
- Management of congenital anomalies affecting the airway or digestive tract
- Innovative research and patient education
The Integrative Medicine Addressing Gastro-Intestinal Needs With Evidence (IMAGINE) Clinic offers a holistic, evidence-based approach to pediatric gut health. As one of only eight pediatric GI integrative programs in the country, IMAGINE combines conventional medicine with complementary therapies to prioritize long-term well-being and lifestyle changes.
Program Highlights
- Psychology and social/mental health support
- Conventional medicine as well as complementary therapies, such as herbal remedies
- Specialized nutritional guidance
The Leveraging Endoscopic Advancements in Pediatrics (LEAP) Program introduces and applies cutting-edge endoscopic technologies for pediatric gastroenterology patients.
Program Highlights
- Transnasal endoscopy, a procedure that reduces the need for sedation
- Diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy
The multispecialty Pancreatic Diseases Program provides comprehensive, integrated care for children with a wide range of pancreatic disorders. A team of experts combines preventative measures and innovative treatments with a focus on long-term wellness.
Program Highlights
- Advanced diagnostic tools and individualized treatment plans
- Patient and family education
- Cutting-edge pancreatic research
- Multidisciplinary expertise from gastroenterologists, pulmonologists, endocrinologists, surgeons and dietitians
Inflammatory Programs
EOE provides compassionate, comprehensive care and innovative treatments for eosinophilic esophagitis — an allergic-inflammatory condition of the esophagus.
Program Highlights
- Multidisciplinary care from gastroenterologists, allergists and dietitians
- The region’s only transnasal endoscopy (TNE) service
- Tailored treatment plans and ongoing research
- Patient empowerment
The Celiac Disease Program offers comprehensive support for those affected by celiac disease, focusing on medical management and a gluten-free lifestyle.
Program Highlights
- Personalized dietary guidance and expert nutritional advice
- Educational workshops and health management tools
- Access to specialized health care and community support
Nutrition and Weight Programs
Established in 2015 as the first program of its kind in the region, GIRAF provides specialized treatment for pediatric patients with intestinal failure, focusing on restoring the ability to digest and absorb essential nutrients and fluids.
Program Highlights
- Ongoing, collaborative care (inpatient and outpatient)
- Individualized treatment plans focused on growth
- Involvement in NIH-funded research and national clinical programs
- Family-centric approach to complex care management
The Healthy First Program is one of only a few U.S. hospital programs offering comprehensive weight management. Its dedicated team includes some of the most experienced surgeons and clinicians in the region.
Program Highlights
- Weight management and nutrition counseling
- Optional bariatric surgery (ages 13-21)
- Active research into childhood obesity and overeating factors
- Comprehensive support for long-term lifestyle and nutrition goals
Watch: SSM Health Medical Minute: Program Supports Nutrition in Kids
NOURISH is dedicated to children with complex nutritional needs. Its team of experts delivers integrated care and individualized treatment plans through a family-centered approach and specialized clinics.
Program Highlights
- Early Childhood Nutrition Clinic: Support for infants and young children facing feeding difficulties, malnutrition or poor weight gain.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease Nutrition Clinic: Comprehensive dietary support and interventions for children living with IBD.
- Celiac Disease Clinic: Growth monitoring and gluten-free symptom resolution
- Pediatric Enteral Nutrition (EN)/Tube Feeding Clinic: Specialized support children dependent on G/GJ tubes