Developmental Anatomy and Physiology of the Esophagus
The main esophageal functions are to transport food from the mouth to the stomach and to prevent reflux of gastric contents, so the main manifestations of disease in this organ…
Congenital Malformations of the Esophagus
Congenital Lesions of the Esophagus Congenital lesions of the esophagus fall into three categories: congenital esophageal stenosis, the variants of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula, and laryngotracheoesophageal clefts. Congenital Esophageal…
Functional Constipation and Incontinence
Constipation and fecal incontinence represent common problems in children. Beyond the neonatal period, only a minority of children have an organic cause for their constipation and the etiology remains not…
Basic Aspects of Digestion and Absorption
The gastrointestinal tract handles our daily vital task of safely receiving and extracting nutrients from what we eat and drink. Our gut is efficient because of a complex, coordinated, and…
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Introduction Gastrointestinal hemorrhage is one of the most serious presenting complaints a pediatric gastroenterologist may need to diagnose and treat. A proper understanding of various etiologies and available treatment modalities…
Eating Disorders in Children and Adolescents
Eating disorders are life threatening, biopsychosocial diseases that affect children, adolescents, and young adults. Pediatricians, parents, and others who take care of children are recognizing disordered eating attitudes and behaviors…
Development of the Gastrointestinal Tract
Understanding the key steps in gastrointestinal development offers insight into the pathophysiology of both acquired and congenital gastrointestinal diseases. Here we review early patterning, later differentiation, and the role of…
