Gastroenterology and GI Surgery

A message from our division chiefs

Utilizing longstanding clinical programs and new groundbreaking therapies, the Gastroenterology division is committed to treating the full spectrum of pediatric GI conditions.

One of these clinical programs, the Claude Prestidge Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Clinic, celebrated a decade of patient care in 2024. Our division co-directs the program alongside our Pulmonology colleagues, as digestive health is critical to maintain a higher body mass index and positive long-term outcomes. The program has reached a benchmark of 58 percentile body mass index for cystic fibrosis patients between the ages of 2 and 9 years old, marking a significant accomplishment for our team and our patients.

Our dedication to achieving positive patient outcomes is the catalyst for implementing innovative techniques throughout the division. In 2023, we established an Unsedated Transnasal Endoscopy Program, offering diagnostic endoscopy for eligible patients, particularly those with eosinophilic esophagitis, to eliminate unnecessary risk, cost and time associated with deep sedation or general anesthesia.

In our pursuit to pioneer the future of pediatric GI care, we continue to lead research activity, engage our peers and invest in the next generation of GI physicians to provide the highest level of clinical expertise for our patients. In addition to new programs studying cholestasis, biliary atresia and autoimmune liver disease, we are the founding site of Pediatric ERCP Database Initiative (PEDI), a multicenter international collaborative examining technical and clinical outcomes in endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We are also heavily involved in educating and equipping pediatric GI trainees at Children's Medical Center Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Center, offering one of the most well-rounded training environments in the nation.

Building on a strong foundation of excellence in all pillars of our mission, we look forward to furthering our contribution to the children around the globe suffering from pediatric GI disease.

Bradley Barth, M.D., M.P.H.

Barbara Gaines, M.D.

OUTCOMES

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

Innovations in pediatric gastroenterology and GI surgery: 2024 year in review

This past year, the Gastroenterology department at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, part of Children’s Health, has led innovations transforming pediatric GI care. In partnership with UT Southwestern, we’re proud to share these advancements – which highlight our ongoing mission to make life better for children. Through groundbreaking clinical trials, new treatments and pioneering programs – we continue to be recognized among the nation’s best children’s hospitals.

Read about our latest innovations in pediatric gastroenterology and GI surgery below:

Podcast: Introducing a new blood test to diagnose biliary atresia 

Early diagnosis of biliary atresia (BA) is critical to help children avoid liver failure. But differentiating BA from other causes of neonatal cholestasis is slow and difficult. Experts at Children's Health developed a new blood test to speed up the process. The test measures matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7), an enzyme proven to be a reliable biomarker for BA. Children's Health is currently the only health system offering this blood test but has made it accessible to physicians nationwide via an online requisition form.

Groundbreaking study uncovers new links between gut bacteria, appetite and obesity 

Researchers at Children’s Health discovered a new facet of the gut-brain axis when they genetically altered mice to be born without enteroendocrine cells (EECs) in the colon. The mice developed obesity at 9 weeks – but not because of hormonal changes. Instead, the altered mice had unique microbiota that signaled their bodies to produce more glutamate. The additional glutamate then led the mice to crave and eat more food. This discovery could lead to new approaches for treating extreme weight gain and loss. 

Discover more on pediatric gastroenterology at Children’s Health