Colorectal Program

Motility Disorders Program

The Gastrointestinal Motility Disorders Program at Primary Children’s Hospital is the only pediatric program in the Intermountain West offering diagnostic testing and comprehensive care of children with gastrointestinal motility disorders. This includes manometry studies, which measure the squeeze of the digestive tract. In conjunction with the Colorectal Center, CHARM Clinic, and the Bowel Management Program, our team offers a broad spectrum of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions for children struggling with motility disorders.

Motility refers to the normal movement of foods and liquids through the digestive tract. When motility is working appropriately, nutrients and fluids move through the digestive tract and are absorbed, while waste is eliminated as poop. Abnormalities in motility can occur at any point in the digestive tract, from the mouth to the stomach, small intestines, colon, or anus. These abnormalities may be due to problems with the muscles, nerves, or tissue, and can result in difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, chronic abdominal pain, bloating, or constipation.

Conditions We Treat

Our multidisciplinary team consists of pediatric gastroenterologists, surgeons, nurses, social workers, physical therapists, and child life specialists dedicated to the care of patients with motility disorders.  Our areas of expertise include treatment of patients with:

Services Provided

We provide a variety of service including, but not limited to, the below.

  • pH/Impedance (gastroesophageal reflux) Testing 
  • Esophageal Manometry 
  • Esophageal Dilation 
  • Stomach and Small Bowel Manometry  
  • Pyloric Dilation, Pyloric BOTOX® and Dysport® Injections  
  • Gastric Emptying Testing 
  • Colonic Manometry 
  • Anorectal Manometry 
  • Anal Sphincter Dilation, Anal BOTOX® and Dysport® Injections 
  • Multidisciplinary Bowel Management Program  
  • Pelvic floor rehabilitation and physical therapy 

Referrals

The Motility Disorders Program requires a referral from your child's gastroenterology (GI) specialist, surgeon, or other specialist to ensure they are seen by the appropriate member of our team and facilitate a smooth transition of care. This means that we cannot accept patient self-referrals. 

What to Expect

The Motility Clinic is located on the 3rd floor of the Primary Children's Hospital Outpatient Services Building. Our nurse coordinator will contact you prior to your clinic visit to review a clinic plan and coordinated procedures to be scheduled. 

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