Gastroenterology: Intestinal Rehabilitation Program
The Intestinal Rehabilitation team at Children's has developed a program that brings together all the necessary components to treat intestinal failure patients through specialized nutrition, medical and surgical strategies.
Collaborative Approach
Our teams of experts encompasses gastroenterologists, surgeons, nurses, dietitians, infectious disease specialists, hematologists, stoma nurses and social workers, among others.
Meet the Team
Nandini Channabasappa, M.D.
Barbie Drews, RN, CPNP-PC
Maria-Paula Carrillo, RD
Monica Todd, RN
Gwen Spector, RN, BSN, CGRN
Stephanie Mendez, MA
Office Hours
Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of patients are seen in the intestinal rehabilitation center?
The team sees infants and children whose intestines do not work adequately due to loss or poor functioning. Conditions frequently seen include:
- Necrotizing enterocolitis
- Gastroschisis
- Atresias of the intestine
- Congenital short gut syndrome
- Pseudobstruction
- Hirschsprung's Disease
- Functional disorders including Microvillous inclusion disease, tufting enteropathy and megacystis microcolon hypoperistalsis syndrome.
How can I become a patient in the Intestinal Rehabilitation Program?
The referring provider should call and speak to the director of the IR program, Dr. Channabasappa. A comprehensive questionnaire must be completed and accompanied by records including operative and pathology reports, diagnostic test results and laboratory data. Once all the information is received, the IR team meets to review each patient individually.
Who will be in charge of my child while I am in the hospital?
The outpatient team will visit you during your initial hospitalization or prior to transfer to the Gastroenterology unit.The inpatient gastroenterologist will be in charge of the day-to-day care of your child while in hospital. The outpatient team is in contact with the inpatient team and is aware of changes in your child's condition.
Who will I see as an outpatient?
The outpatient team consists of a gastroenterologist, nurse practitioner, dietitian and nurse. If other members of the healthcare team are needed, then an appointment will be made in the appropriate clinic (i.e, surgery, social work, etc.).
My child was admitted to a hospital other than Children's, what should I do?
For continuity of care, we request that all admissions be at Children's Medical Center Dallas. If your child is admitted to another facility, please call our office. All efforts are made to transfer your child to Children's Medical Center Dallas, if necessary.
Who should I call for questions regarding my child's feeds (formulas, diet or general nutrition)?
Our dietitians are available during your clinic visit, and also by phone during regular business hours.
I cannot make my scheduled clinic visit, what should I do?
Please call 214-456-8000 as soon as possible to cancel or reschedule your appointment.
If you have additional questions or concerns, please call 214-456-8022.
