Akron Children’s provides the full range of testing and treatment options for patients with a variety of gastrointestinal motility disorders.
The new motility program is currently spearheaded by Shivani Gupta, DO, who serves as director of the Pediatric Neurogastroenterology and Motility Program. Dr. Gupta joined Akron Children’s in 2022 upon completion of her pediatric gastroenterology fellowship, as well as advanced training in neurogastroenterology and motility disorders at Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
“We offer a variety of high-resolution manometry procedures, which serve to test sensory and motor function within the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Understanding the function of nerves and muscles within the GI tract and their impact on symptoms allows us to provide better treatment options to our patients,” said Dr. Gupta. “These treatment options may include unique or specialized medications and possible surgical interventions.”
Tina Enberg, RN, motility program nurse coordinator, with Dr. Shivani Gupta, director of the Pediatric Neurogastroenterology and Motility Program.
Many patients may benefit from a motility evaluation including those with:
- Refractory constipation, nausea and vomiting
- Rumination syndrome
- Intestinal pseudo-obstruction
- Achalasia
- Gastroparesis
- Hirschsprung’s disease
- Functional gastrointestinal disorders
“In addition to evaluation and testing, we offer specialized treatment options such as gastric stimulation and pelvic floor physical therapy/biofeedback for children with chronic constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction,” said Dr. Gupta. “We have also added a GI psychologist to our team to address the behavioral and psychological aspect of patients with functional GI and motility disorders.”
If a patient presents with concerns for an underlying motility disorder or need for further testing, referrals should first be made to Pediatric Gastroenterology. Following initial assessment, an appropriate referral will be made to the Neurogastroenterology and Motility Program.
Make a referral to Pediatric Gastroenterology through Epic or call the Appointment Center at 330-543-2778.
Motility program nurse coordinator Tina Enberg, RN, Katherine Sheets, RN, and Dr. Shivani Gupta, director of the Pediatric Neurogastroenterology and Motility Program.
