Procedures
As a specialized pediatric gastroenterology group, we provide a wide range of diagnostic procedures and testing to accurately evaluate and treat gastrointestinal conditions in children. Below is a list of commonly performed procedures. We also may request diagnostic imaging, such as abdominal ultrasounds and contrast studies, to further evaluate gastrointestinal structures. Our team of skilled professionals works collaboratively to interpret results and create personalized treatment plans tailored to each child's specific needs.
Upper Endoscopy (or Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD)
An upper endoscopy uses a small camera to check inside your child’s stomach while they’re asleep. It helps identify issues like inflammation or irritation, and tiny biopsies may be taken for testing. This guides us in diagnosing and treating your child’s symptoms.
Colonoscopy
A Colonoscopy is a test in which a doctor looks directly into the last part if the intestines with a narrow bendable tube mounted with a camera to find out why kids have diarrhea, bleeding and stomach pain.
Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from your child’s liver, usually with a needle, to check for disease or damage. It’s done safely under sedation to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Wireless Esophageal pH Test
A wireless esophageal pH test measures acid levels in your child’s esophagus over 48 hours. A small capsule is attached to the esophagus during an endoscopy and records acid activity wirelessly. This test helps diagnose acid reflux and guides treatment, all while allowing your child to continue normal activities.
Esophageal Manometry Study
An esophageal manometry study measures how well your child’s esophagus muscles work. A thin tube is gently placed through the nose into the stomach to record muscle strength and coordination while swallowing. This helps diagnose swallowing problems or esophageal motility disorders and guide treatment.
Anorectal Manometry Study
An anorectal manometry study measures how well the muscles and nerves in your child’s rectum and anus work. A small, flexible tube is gently inserted to record pressure and muscle function. This test helps diagnose constipation, incontinence, or other bowel issues and guides treatment.
Video Capsule Endoscopy
Video capsule endoscopy uses a small, swallowable camera capsule to take pictures of your child’s digestive tract. The capsule passes naturally, recording images to help diagnose issues like bleeding, inflammation, or other conditions.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tube Placement (PEG)
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube placement is a procedure where a feeding tube is inserted into your child’s stomach through the abdomen using a camera. It provides nutrition when eating isn’t possible.
Anal Botox Injection
Anal Botox injection is a procedure where Botox is injected into the anal muscles to relax them. It helps treat conditions like chronic constipation or fissures by improving muscle function.
Endoscopic Band Ligation and Sclerotherapy
Endoscopic band ligation and sclerotherapy are procedures to treat bleeding veins in the esophagus. Using a camera, bands or medicine are applied to stop bleeding and prevent recurrence.
Esophageal Stricture Dilation
Esophageal stricture dilation is a procedure to widen narrowed areas in your child’s esophagus. A flexible tube with a balloon or dilator is used during endoscopy to gently stretch the narrowed section, improving swallowing.
Pylorus Botox Injection
Pylorus Botox injection is a procedure where Botox is injected into the stomach’s pylorus muscle to relax it. This helps improve stomach emptying and treat certain digestive issues.
Hemostasis Therapies: Electrocautery, Hemo-Clip application, and Argon plasma
coagulation (APC), and Hemospray
Hemostasis therapies, including electrocautery, hemo-clip application, argon plasma coagulation (APC), and Hemospray, are procedures to stop gastrointestinal bleeding. These techniques use heat, clips, sprays, or plasma to control bleeding during an endoscopy.
Breath Testing
Breath testing is a non-invasive procedure that measures gases in your child’s breath to diagnose conditions like lactose intolerance, bacterial overgrowth, or H. pylori infection. Your child drinks a specific solution, and their breath is analyzed over time.
Commonly Ordered Imaging Studies
Imaging studies like X-rays, ultrasounds, or MRIs help us see inside your child’s body to identify issues causing symptoms. They can provide information for diagnosis and treatment planning and are recommended only when necessary for your child’s care. Below are some of the studies that may be ordered.​
Barium Enema Examination
A barium enema is an X-ray test that uses a liquid contrast (barium) to highlight the large intestine. It helps diagnose conditions like blockages or structural issues.
Abdominal Ultrasound
An abdominal ultrasound is a safe, painless test that uses sound waves to create images of your child’s internal organs. It helps diagnose conditions like pain, swelling, or abnormalities in the stomach, liver, kidneys, or intestines, guiding effective treatment.
Magnetic Resonance Enterography
Magnetic Resonance Enterography (MRE) is a specialized MRI scan that provides detailed images of your child’s intestines. It’s used to diagnose conditions like inflammation or Crohn’s disease and helps guide treatment. The procedure is safe and non-invasive, using no radiation.
Sitz Marker Testing
Sitz marker testing evaluates how food moves through your child’s intestines to diagnose constipation or motility issues. Your child swallows small markers visible on X-rays taken over a few days.
Gastric Emptying Study
A gastric emptying study measures how quickly food leaves your child’s stomach. Your child eats a meal with a small amount of safe radioactive material, and a scanner tracks digestion. It’s painless and helps diagnose conditions like delayed gastric emptying.
Upper GI Study
An upper GI study uses X-rays and a contrast material your child drinks to examine the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. It helps diagnose issues like reflux, blockages, or swallowing problems.
Modified Barium
Swallow Study
A modified barium swallow study evaluates how your child swallows using X-rays and a barium drink. It helps identify swallowing difficulties or risks of aspiration, guiding safe feeding strategies and treatment.