Gastroenterology

Why Choose Connecticut Children’s for Gastroenterology?

We provide compassionate, evidence-based care for a broad range of pediatric gastrointestinal conditions, including Crohn's disease, chronic constipation, food allergies and liver disease. Our board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists work with highly skilled nurses, registered dietitians and other pediatric specialists to provide exceptional care to children and teens. We’re also at the forefront of pediatric GI research, discovering new treatments through research and clinical trials.

Diagnosis of Pediatric GI Conditions

Pediatric GI conditions can be difficult to diagnose because children don't always have the language they need to describe how they're feeling. Having a stomachache that just won't go away, trouble eating or swallowing or chronic issues going to the bathroom can be symptoms of any number of GI conditions. Our GI specialists take the time to get to know your child and their symptoms in order to make an accurate diagnosis.
With access to the latest diagnostic tools and treatments, our doctors create personalized care plans tailored to each child’s unique needs.

Treatment Options

Treating digestive and liver conditions in children requires a specialized approach. Treatment may include:

Nutritional counseling: Optimal nutrition helps children grow and thrive. Our registered dietitians provide personalized nutrition counseling to help children get the nutrients they need.
Medication management: Some GI conditions can be treated with prescription medication.
Infusion therapy: Some patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) benefit from medication that's delivered by an IV. These treatments take place in our state-of-the-art Infusion Centers in Farmington and Westport.
Psychosocial support: We understand the emotional challenges that come with pediatric GI conditions and offer mental health support for children and families.
Procedures: Standard treatment for some GI conditions includes procedures, such as fecal transplantation, or the use of non-surgical devices, such as IB-STIM.

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Programs & Services

Our Gastroenterology Expertise

Caring for All Types of GI Conditions

The Division of Gastroenterology includes experts in treating a variety of GI conditions, from eosinophilic esophagitis to neurogastroenterology and motility disorders to pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. We're also experienced in treating complex GI and liver conditions, including pediatric liver disease and conditions that require surgery.

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Pediatric GI Specialists

Our board-certified, fellowship-trained gastroenterologists are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions impacting the digestive system, including the stomach, intestines, liver and pancreas.

Meet Our Team

New Discoveries and Breakthroughs

Connecticut Children’s pediatric gastroenterology team not only applies the latest research to our care but is also making new discoveries. We’re working to understand gastrointestinal diseases and using those findings to develop new treatment options, including novel biologic therapies.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is a colonoscopy performed in children, and what should we expect?

A colonoscopy is performed similarly in children to adults. Anesthesia is administered to sedate the patient. The colonoscope—a long, flexible tube with a camera—is then inserted into the child's rectum and the doctor will observe the large intestine and end of the small intestine. They may collect samples to biopsy during the procedure if needed. The entire procedure should take less than an hour.
Before the colonoscopy, your child will need to be on a soft foods diet and receive the laxatives provided by the GI specialist. After the colonoscopy, your child may be tired and want to nap. They can usually resume their normal diet and activities the following day.

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