Colorectal-Bowel Management Program

The Only Dedicated Pediatric Colorectal Treatment Program in the Region

The CHOC Colorectal / Bowel Management Program specializes in providing expert diagnosis and second opinions for colorectal disorders, and developing personalized treatment plans using advanced diagnostics and the latest, research-based treatment options. We also provide specialized, ongoing care to children who are experiencing complications such as constipation and incontinence after having undergone surgeries to correct colorectal disorders. We are the only program in the region to provide the multidisciplinary care of a pediatric gastroenterologist and pediatric surgeon in one convenient appointment.

Colorectal Services at CHOC

We proudly offer:

• Multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment planning. Upon referral, patients undergo tests to determine the best way to care for their colorectal condition. Families will meet with our expert colorectal surgeons, motility gastroenterologists, urologists, skin and ostomy nurses and a nursing care coordinator during their appointment. Together, the providers will develop a comprehensive treatment plan with the child and family.
• Specialized colorectal surgery. Our renowned colorectal surgeons offer surgical treatment for patients with anorectal malformation based on individualized treatment plans and comprehensive team-centered planning. Your child’s gastroenterologist and urologist will accompany the surgeon during many procedures, meaning that your child will benefit from the expertise of each physician when they need it most.
• Long-term postoperative colorectal care. Most children require long-term follow-up care after colorectal surgery. This incredible long-term medical management is available not only to patients who have received their surgical treatment at CHOC, but also to those who have not. Some patients may need to be seen in our clinic on a monthly basis (or more as needed) while other patients may need to be seen three to four times each year.
• Gastroenterology Motility Center. We offer extensive gastrointestinal motility testing in our state-of-the-art Motility Procedure Center. Our motility specialists perform anorectal manometery, colonic manometry, anal Botox® injections and biofeedback therapy.

Our Colorectal / Bowel Management Program team is dedicated to the long-term well-being and needs of all our patients—throughout childhood and beyond.

What We Treat

Patients are referred to the Colorectal / Bowel Management Program for advanced testing and treatment of colorectal disorders, including:

• Hirschsprung’s disease
• Imperforate anus
• Spina bifida
• Colonic atresia
• Cloacal anomalies
• Intestinal pseudo-obstruction
• Difficult-to-treat or chronic constipation
• Fecal incontinence.

Care and Compassion Now and in the Future

CHOC’s pediatric gastroenterologists and surgeons believe that testing and treatment should be individualized for your child’s medical and emotional needs, while always being mindful of your family’s values. We work with you to make sure all of your concerns regarding your child’s medical issues are addressed, and that you understand the testing strategies and treatment options available for your child’s condition.

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