At Phoenix Children’s, we offer a dedicated Intestinal Rehabilitation Program for newborns and infants diagnosed with short bowel syndrome and intestinal failure. Our facility houses the only Level IV Sharon D. Lund Newborn Intensive Care Unit in Arizona, ensuring the highest standard of care for our patients.

What is Intestinal Failure?

Intestinal failure occurs when the small intestine cannot effectively absorb nutrients and water from food. This condition may arise from congenital defects, genetic abnormalities, neuromuscular issues, or complications from intestinal surgeries.

Symptoms can include:

  • Poor weight gain
  • Dehydration
  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal distension
  • Loss of appetite

Without proper nutrition and hydration, intestinal failure can be life-threatening. Many children with this condition depend on intravenous nutrition, and our goal is to provide therapies that help restore bowel function and enable them to transition to oral feedings.

Conditions We Treat

We address a range of conditions associated with intestinal failure, including:

  • Necrotizing enterocolitis
  • Gastroschisis
  • Intestinal atresia
  • Intestinal malrotation and volvulus
  • Long-segment Hirschsprung disease
  • Congenital diarrheas
  • Meconium ileus

Programs and Services

To ensure comprehensive care, we offer specialized follow-up clinics:

  • NEST Clinic
  • Enteral Clinic
  • Intestinal Failure/Short Bowel Syndrome Clinic
  • Pediatric Surgery (including STEP procedures)
  • Intestinal Transplant consultations through affiliated hospitals, as needed

Our Multidisciplinary Team

Our experienced team provides coordinated care at every stage of treatment, including:

  • Neonatologists
  • Pediatric gastroenterologists
  • Pediatric surgeons
  • Registered neonatal dietitians
  • Pharmacists
  • Nurse practitioners
  • Lactation specialists
  • Social workers
  • Case managers