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INFORMATION FOR

Pediatric IBD Program

Credit: Robert A. Lisak

The Yale Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program is devoted to the care of children with Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD). Inflammatory Bowel Diseases are chronic gastrointestinal disorders such as Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. IBD in children can present with various symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhea, blood in stools, and poor weight gain. It is estimated that approximately 50,000 children suffer from IBD in the United States and the numbers are rising.

Multidisciplinary Approach

The Yale Pediatric IBD Program provides a multidisciplinary team approach for the comprehensive care of children and adolescents with IBD. The members of our team include pediatric gastroenterologists, nurses, nutritionists, surgeons, radiologists and pathologists.

Transitional Program

Teenagers and young adults with IBD have a unique set of needs. Our transition program helps prepare them to become independent in caring for themselves. Our partnership with the Yale adult IBD program helps us make the eventual transition from pediatric to adult Gastroenterologist a positive experience for all.

Research

We are a participating site for the DEVELOP Registry for Pediatric IBD. We also participate in a research study to assess genetic base of inflammatory bowel disease in children.

Outside Links

Information for Children and Young Adults

Capsule Endoscopy

Video capsule endoscopy is a test to evaluate the small intestine by swallowing a small video camera enclosed in a capsule. The capsule is propelled forward through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by the motion of the GI tract itself. Children are prepared for the exam by firmly applying a sensor belt and recorder to their abdomen. The recorder captures photographic images of the insides of the intestine for approximately 8 hours as the capsule passes through the GI tract. The data recorder is then downloaded to a computer and the images are reviewed. The capsule is expelled naturally through a bowel movement.