Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an immune mediated inflammation of the intestines which can afflict pediatric patients. Although most IBD in children is treated with medicines, some children require surgical care for complex disease.
The team at Austin Pediatric Surgery is committed to the care of children with IBD. We offer advanced treatments using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic ileocecectomy and colectomy with ileoanal pouch reconstruction. We work as a team with gastroenterologist to ensure you and your children receive the best multidisciplinary care we can provide.
Dr. Jessica Naiditch is a board certified pediatric surgeon who has a special interest in IBD and leads the surgical IBD team at APS.
Crohn’s Disease
What is it?
Crohn’s Disease causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and can affect any portion of the intestines. It can result in strictures, fistulas, or blockages in the bowel.
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Signs and Symptoms
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Abdominal pain, fatigue, weight loss
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Persistent diarrhea or rectal bleeding
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Mouth ulcers or skin infections
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Possible effects on the liver, kidneys, and joints
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Evaluation and Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves stool and blood tests, imaging (MRI/CT scans), and endoscopy with biopsies to confirm inflammation and disease extent.
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Treatment
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Medications: Steroids, immunomodulators, or biologics
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Surgery: Reserved for complications like bowel narrowing or fistulas, focusing on preserving intestinal length
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Follow-Up Care
Ongoing gastroenterology follow-ups with nutritional and surgical monitoring are essential to maintain growth and minimize symptoms.
Ulcerative Colitis (UC)
What is it?
UC is an inflammatory condition affecting the colon (large intestine)’s inner lining, causing pain, diarrhea, and bloody stool. Unlike Crohn’s, UC is limited to the colon and rectum.
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Signs and Symptoms
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Abdominal pain, weight loss, bloody diarrhea
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Symptoms outside the intestine, such as joint or skin issues
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Evaluation and Diagnosis
Similar to Crohn’s, diagnosis requires bloodwork, imaging, and colonoscopy with biopsies to assess inflammation and disease progression.
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Treatment
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Medications: Similar to Crohn’s
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Surgery: Removal of the colon with reconstruction of the intestinal pathway (ileoanal pull-through procedure) can be curative
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Follow-Up Care
Close monitoring with both surgical and gastroenterology teams ensures proper healing and growth.
IBD Unspecified (IBDU)
What is it?
IBDU is diagnosed when symptoms overlap between Crohn’s and UC. It is more common in children and often requires less medical treatment.
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Treatment and Follow-Up
Managed similarly to other IBD types, with an emphasis on monitoring symptoms and minimizing interventions.
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At Austin Pediatric Surgery, we are committed to helping your child manage IBD with expert care, whether through advanced medical treatments or surgery. Contact us for compassionate guidance tailored to your child’s needs.