Gastroenterology Motility Program

At CHKD, our multidisciplinary team of pediatric specialists works closely with patients, families, and referring physicians to diagnose and manage complex conditions of the digestive tract. We are proud to offer Virginia’s only dedicated pediatric Gastroenterology Motility Program, providing highly specialized care for children across the state.

What is Digestive Motility?

Digestive motility refers to the movement of food and liquid from the mouth through the esophagus to the stomach, then the intestines, and finally out of the body as waste. This occurs when muscles and nerves work together to create wave-like contractions in the gut called peristalsis. Any abnormality that affects the muscles or nerves in the digestive system can interrupt this delicate progression and cause serious health problems.

Symptoms of motility disorders may include:

• Difficulty swallowing
• Severe gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Frequent nausea and vomiting
• Severe constipation
• Chronic abdominal distention
• Fecal incontinence
• Failure to thrive

Advanced Diagnostics

Getting an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward improving life for children with motility issues. Manometry is a specialized test to measure muscle pressure and nerve function in different areas of the digestive system, from the esophagus to the anus.

We offer a variety of state-of-the-art manometry devices, each unique to specific anatomic areas of the digestive tract.  We also offer EndoFLIP, the latest technology in diagnosing esophageal motility disorders, which can be performed while a child is under anesthesia.

Children with complex medical needs and/or conditions such as spina bifida, cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, or muscular dystrophy often suffer from motility disorders. CHKD’s motility team brings extensive experience in caring for children of all ages and developmental levels. We work collaboratively across multiple specialties to ensure patients, families, and the broader medical team are aligned and working toward shared goals.

We diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including the following:

• Achalasia
• Gastroparesis
• Anorectal malformations
• Pelvic floor dyssynergia
• Intestinal pseudo-obstruction

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the nature and location of the disorder. In some cases, we manage symptoms with medications such as pyloric (stomach) and intra-anal sphincter Botox injections. Surgical procedures, including esophageal sphincter myotomy, pneumatic balloon dilation and cecostomy tube placement may be necessary.  In addition, we offer a unique specialized service through our Physical Therapy-Biofeedback program for children with severe constipation and encopresis (fecal incontinence).

At CHKD, patients benefit from the comprehensive range of medical and support services available only at a freestanding children’s hospital. Our team will work with patients and families to make children comfortable, ease fears, and help them understand conditions and treatments.  Our mission is to diagnose and treat children who are struggling with these unique conditions so that they may live healthier and happier lives.