Gastroenterology
University Pediatricians | Michigan
About the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Program
The Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition Program at Children’s Hospital of Michigan is consistently ranked among America’s best in the U.S. News & World Report for Pediatric Gastroenterology and GI Surgery. Our program provides comprehensive, family-centered care for infants, children, and adolescents with gastrointestinal, liver, pancreatic, and nutritional disorders.
We offer a full range of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services, including endoscopic procedures, breath hydrogen testing, pH/impedance monitoring, capsule endoscopy, percutaneous gastrostomy tube placement, variceal banding, sclerotherapy, and specialized motility studies such as esophageal and anorectal manometry. Endoscopic procedures are performed in state-of-the-art endoscopy suites at both the Children’s Hospital of Michigan main campus and Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Troy.
Our Division includes a dedicated Hepatology and Liver Transplant Program, providing expert care for children with acute and chronic liver disease. We offer comprehensive and multidisciplinary evaluation and seamless pre- and post-transplant management for patients with complex liver conditions.
We are also home to a fully accredited Pediatric Gastroenterology Fellowship Program, committed to training future leaders in pediatric gastroenterology and hepatology through extensive clinical experience, research opportunities, and close faculty mentorship.
Division Leadership
Dr. Mohammad El-Baba Professor of Pediatrics, serves as Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition. The Division is staffed by a highly skilled multidisciplinary team that includes seven board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists, one pediatric hepatologist, six clinical nurses, three well-qualified certified nurse practitioners (CNPs), and two specialized pediatric dietitians. Our faculty care for a wide range of common and complex gastrointestinal and liver conditions, actively participate in clinical research, and hold academic appointments at the Central Michigan University College of Medicine, where they are deeply involved in the education of medical students, residents, and fellows.
Gastroenterology Specialized Clinical Programs
The Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition provides expertise to several interdisciplinary programs including: Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program, Aerodigestive Disease Clinic, CHIRP Clinic, Eosinophilic Esophagitis Clinic, and Pediatric Liver Disease and Transplant Program.
At Children’s Hospital of Michigan, our specialized Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) clinic provides comprehensive care for hundreds of pediatric patients with ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and indeterminate colitis. The program utilizes a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of children and adolescents with IBD.
Our core team includes a pediatric gastroenterologist, nurse practitioner, registered dietitian, IBD nurse coordinator, and psychologist. In addition, we collaborate closely with pediatric surgeons, pathologists with expertise in IBD, and pediatric radiologists experienced in evaluating these conditions. To further support our complex patient population, we partner with specialists in Rheumatology, Hematology, Immunology, Genetics, and Dermatology.
The IBD Transition Program is designed to support adolescents and young adults in developing independence in managing their condition, ensuring a smooth and successful transition from pediatric to adult gastroenterology care.
Our program is also actively engaged in clinical research, including ongoing clinical trials in therapeutics. We are deeply committed to community outreach and work closely with the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation through Medical Advisory Board involvement and volunteer efforts, including numerous charity events and camps.
The Pediatric Liver Disease and Liver Transplant Program at Children’s Hospital of Michigan provides a continuum of care for infants, children, and teens with liver disease. Patients receive expert medical evaluation and management of liver disease such as elevated liver enzymes, autoimmune hepatitis, viral hepatitis, genetic liver diseases, congenital liver disease, portal hypertension, and cirrhosis. Our partnership with the Children’s Hospital of Michigan’s Department of Pediatric Surgery and Henry Ford Hospital’s Liver Surgery specialists allows for the surgical evaluation and treatment of a variety diseases including biliary atresia, liver tumors, and vascular disorders of the liver with treatments that include liver resections, portoenterostomy (Kasai procedure), interventional radiology procedures, living-donor and deceased-donor liver transplantation.
The physicians in the program are board certified in pediatric liver transplant and hepatology as well as pediatric gastroenterology with extensive experience in childhood liver disease and liver transplant with excellent support from nurse practitioners a clinical coordinator, dietitians, social workers and psychologists. The pediatric liver disease and liver transplant program is the only one of it’s kind in metropolitan Detroit.
When both endoscopy and colonoscopies fail to find the source of the GI-related concern, Children’s Hospital of Michigan’s Gastroenterology Department offers capsule endoscopy to diagnose conditions that are difficult to detect. It is a simple process in which the patient swallows a capsule that contains a tiny camera which takes images as it passes along the gastrointestinal tract. The collected images are then transferred wirelessly to an external receiver worn by the patient. After a few hours, the images are transferred to a computer for review and interpretation.
A pediatric gastroenterologist might recommend a capsule endoscopy procedure to:
1. Determine the cause of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.
2. Evaluate patients with suspected Crohn’s disease
3. Diagnose small bowel tumors.
4. Screen for polyps.
5. Evaluate chronic abdominal pain of unknown etiology.
The Children’s Hospital Intestinal Rehabilitation Clinic (CHIRP) at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan provides comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for infants and children requiring parenteral nutrition support. Patients receiving intravenous nutrition, including home Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN), often have complex medical needs that benefit from coordinated expertise across multiple pediatric specialties. Our CHIRP clinic currently cares for more than 60 children, including over 30 who are managed on home TPN.
The clinic delivers integrated, patient-centered care through a dedicated team that includes a pediatric surgeon, pediatric gastroenterologist, registered dietitian, and specialized nurse practitioners. This collaborative approach ensures individualized treatment plans aimed at optimizing growth, improving intestinal adaptation, and enhancing overall quality of life for each child and family.
Pediatric Endoscopy Center
Our Pediatric Endoscopy Center is dedicated to delivering advanced, child-focused care in a safe, comfortable, and supportive environment. We provide a full spectrum of diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal procedures using state-of-the-art technology within a specialized operating suite designed exclusively for pediatric patients at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan main campus and at Children’s Hospital of Michigan-Troy
Our team of highly trained pediatric gastroenterologists, anesthesiologists, and nursing staff work together to ensure that every child receives the highest standard of care. We understand that medical procedures can be stressful for both children and families, and we are committed to making each experience as smooth, safe, and reassuring as possible.
he Pediatric Aerodigestive Clinic (PAC) at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan sees children with a variety of airway, breathing and swallowing disorders, sleep apnea and related problems such as malnutrition and gastroesophageal reflux. The clinic is a multidisciplinary program held twice a month at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan ENT Clinic.
Pediatric specialists will meet with the child and their family so that a complete evaluation is performed. Clinicians may include pediatric specialists from the Divisions of Ear, Nose and Throat (Otolaryngology), Gastroenterology, Pulmonology, Craniofacial and Maxillofacial Surgery, Sleep Medicine, Speech Therapy, and Pediatric Surgery. Patients may require in office or operative procedures to determine an appropriate diagnostic and treatment plan.
As a team, pediatric specialists will look at all of the child’s current medications and treatments and develop a plan to minimize the number and extent of procedures required. The treatment plan may include changing the child’s feeding regimen, adjusting medications, adding additional home therapies as well as surgical options. Each plan is tailored to the individual child and family.
For further information on the Pediatric Aerodigestive Clinic or to set up an appointment call (313) 745-9126 or email Xhoana Kociaj, NP.
Comprehensive Pediatric Endoscopic Services
We offer a wide range of minimally invasive procedures that allow for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of gastrointestinal, liver, and nutritional conditions.
Diagnostic Procedures
Upper Endoscopy (EGD)
Upper endoscopy allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using a flexible camera. This procedure helps identify inflammation, infection, structural abnormalities, and other conditions affecting the upper digestive tract. Biopsies can also be taken during the procedure for further evaluation.
Common indications include:
– Chronic or recurrent abdominal pain
– Persistent vomiting, nausea, or feeding intolerance
– Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) or painful swallowing
– Gastrointestinal bleeding (vomiting blood or black stools)
– Suspected celiac disease, gastritis, or esophagitis
– Evaluation of reflux not responding to treatment
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy enables detailed examination of the colon and terminal ileum. It is an essential tool for diagnosing inflammatory, infectious, and structural conditions of the lower gastrointestinal tract. Tissue samples (biopsies) can be obtained, and certain conditions can be treated during the same procedure.
Common indications include:
-Chronic diarrhea or constipation
-Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
-Suspected inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
-Unexplained weight loss or poor growth
-Evaluation of anemia or abnormal laboratory findings.
Capsule Endoscopy
Capsule endoscopy is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure in which a child swallows a small, pill-sized camera that captures thousands of images as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract, particularly the small intestine—an area not easily reached by standard endoscopy. The images are transmitted to a recording device and later reviewed by specialists. This procedure is especially useful because it does not require sedation and is generally well tolerated.
Common indications include:
-Obscure gastrointestinal bleeding
-Suspected small bowel Crohn’s disease
-Unexplained iron deficiency anemia
-Evaluation of small intestinal inflammation, ulcers, or tumors
-Surveillance in polyposis syndromes
Therapeutic Procedures
Percutaneous Gastrostomy Tube (PEG) Placement
PEG placement is a safe and effective method for providing long-term nutritional support in children who are unable to meet their nutritional needs by mouth. This procedure is performed endoscopically, minimizing the need for more invasive surgery.
Indications include:
-Neurological conditions affecting swallowing
-Severe feeding difficulties or oral aversion
-Chronic illness requiring nutritional supplementation
-Failure to thrive or inadequate weight gain
Polypectomy
During endoscopy or colonoscopy, polyps can be identified and safely removed. Removing polyps is important to prevent bleeding, obstruction, or potential progression to more serious conditions.
Indications include:
-Rectal bleeding
-Detection of polyps during screening or imaging
-Known or suspected hereditary polyposis syndromes
Variceal Banding and Sclerotherapy
These advanced endoscopic treatments are used to manage enlarged veins (varices) in the esophagus, which can develop in children with liver disease and portal hypertension. These procedures help control active bleeding and reduce the risk of future bleeding episodes.
Indications include:
-Portal hypertension
-Active or recurrent esophageal variceal bleeding
-Prevention of first-time or recurrent bleeding in high-risk patients
Liver Biopsy
A liver biopsy involves obtaining a small tissue sample to evaluate liver health at a microscopic level. This procedure is essential for diagnosing and monitoring a variety of liver conditions.
Indications include:
-Unexplained elevation of liver enzymes
-Suspected metabolic, genetic, or autoimmune liver diseases
-Chronic liver disease monitoring
-Evaluation of liver fibrosis or cirrhosis
-Motility and Functional Studies
In addition to endoscopic procedures, our center offers specialized motility testing to evaluate how well the gastrointestinal tract moves and functions.
Esophageal Manometry
This test measures the strength and coordination of the esophagus during swallowing. It is particularly useful in diagnosing motility disorders that cannot be seen through standard imaging or endoscopy.
Indications include:
-Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
-Suspected motility disorders such as achalasia
-Persistent gastroesophageal reflux symptoms despite treatment
-Evaluation prior to certain surgical procedures
Anorectal Manometry
Anorectal manometry evaluates the function of the rectum and anal sphincter muscles. It plays a key role in assessing children with chronic bowel issues and guiding treatment strategies.
Indications include:
-Chronic constipation not responding to standard therapies
-Fecal incontinence or soiling
-Suspected Hirschsprung disease
-Evaluation of pelvic floor dysfunction
A Child-Centered Approach to Care
We prioritize comfort, safety, and emotional well-being at every step of the process. Our facility is designed to be welcoming and family-friendly, and our staff are specially trained to care for children of all ages. Sedation and anesthesia are carefully managed by pediatric specialists to ensure each procedure is performed safely and with minimal discomfort.
We also believe in clear communication and partnership with families. Before any procedure, our team takes the time to explain the process, answer questions, and provide detailed preparation and aftercare instructions.
Why Choose Our Center
Dedicated pediatric endoscopy suite with advanced imaging technology.
Experienced multidisciplinary team specializing in pediatric gastrointestinal care.
Minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery and improved outcomes.
Comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services in one location.
Strong focus on patient safety, comfort, and family support.
Appointments
Appointments with a pediatric gastroenterologist are available at six convenient Children’s Hospital of Michigan locations throughout the metropolitan area.
Dearborn Specialty Center
25325 Ford Rd., Dearborn, MI 48187
Detroit Specialty Center
3950 Beaubien Blvd., 3rd Floor, Detroit, MI 48201
Canton Specialty Center
45250 Cherry Hill Rd., Canton, MI 48187
Stilson Specialty Center – Clinton Township
42700 Garfield Rd., Clinton Township, MI 48038
Alex J. Etkin Specialty Center – Southfield
29120 Franklin Rd., Southfield, MI 48034
Children’s Hospital of Michigan – Troy
350 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48084
Pediatric Liver Disease appointments are available at two convenient locations:
Children’s Hospital of Michigan
3901 Beaubien, 2nd Floor, Carls Bldg, Detroit, MI 48201
Children’s Hospital of Michigan – Troy
350 W. Big Beaver Rd., Troy, MI 48084
Patients can make an appointment with a Pediatric Gastroenterologist by calling (313) 745-5585, and for the Liver Diseases Clinic by calling (313) 745-0651.
Our Team is Dedicated to You
Tony Lulgjuraj, M.D.
Suhasini Macha, MD
Renee Dass, M.D.
Namir Al-Ansari, M.D.
Mohammad F. El-Baba, M.D.
Kristen E. Cares, M.D.
Kaitlin Love, NP
Julie Eovaldi, NP
Batoul Baidoun, M.D.
Want to learn more about our distinguished specialists? Click the button below to be taken to our Faculty Directory.
Education
The Division offers a three-year fellowship training in pediatric gastroenterology accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and has ongoing clinical research studies to evaluate inflammatory bowel disease, eosinophilic esophagitis, and Helicobacter pylori infection.
For more information, please click here or on the button below.
Recent Research Publications
Namir Al-Ansari, MD
Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome in Children: A Review of the Literature Acad J Gastroenterol & Hepatol. 2020 April
Kristen Cares, MD
Cares, K, Klein M, Thomas R, El-Baba M. Rectal Prolapse in Children: An Update to Causes, Clinical Presentation, and Management. JPGN 2020 Feb; 70(2):243-246.
Fu Y, Thomas R, Cares K. Influence of Family History on Children with Irritable Bowel Syndrome. JPGN. Approved Dec 22 2020, Pending publication: JPGN-20-752R2.
Ali F, Lee J, Cares K. 11-year-old Presenting with Intermittent Abdominal Pain. Gastroenterology. Approved Dec 30 2020, Pending publication: Gastro-D-20-03607.
Mohammad F. El-Baba, MD
Suryaprakash S, El-Baba M, Walkovich KJ, Savasan S. Expanding clinical spectrum of female X-linked lymphoproliferative syndrome 2. Pediatr Blood Cance. July 2020.[Online ahead of print]. PMID: 32686289
Tony Lulgjuraj, MD
Symal, S., Hinshaw, A., Lulgjuraj, T. The Great Escape: The Surprising Finding in a Case of Acute Vomiting. Gastroenterology. Accepted In Press October 6, 2020. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2020.09.051
Salman Salman, MD
A Celiac Care Index Improves Care of Pediatric Patients Newly Diagnosed with Celiac Disease. Sparks B, Salman S, Shull M, Trout A, Kiel A, Hill I, Ediger T, Boyle B. J Pediatr. 2020 Jan; 216:32-36.e2. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.09.071. Epub 2019 Nov 6. PMID: 31706635
Kristen Cares, MD
North American Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition Annual Meeting, virtual. “Risk of functional constipation in children with history of infantile cow’s milk protein allergy.” (Mentor), 2020.
Kristen Cares, MD
Role: Primary Investigator, Percent effort: 80%
Title: “AN OPEN-LABEL, MULTICENTER STUDY TO EVALUATE THE PHARMACOKINETICS OF SINGLE AND MULTIPLE INTRAVENOUS DOSES OF PANTOPRAZOLE IN TWO AGE COHORTS OF HOSPITALIZED PEDIATRIC SUBJECTS 1 TO 16 YEARS OF AGE WHO ARE CANDIDATES FOR ACID SUPPRESSION THERAPY? Source: Parexel International May 2017-Fall 2020. Total Direct Costs: $30,772.18
Role: Primary Investigator, Percent effort 80%
Title: “Infliximab Proactive Drug Monitoring in the Pediatric IBD Population” Assessing if proactive drug monitoring of the drug, infliximab, will prevent exacerbation in patients with IBD. Source: Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation April 2019-present Total direct costs: $79,055
Mohammad F. El-Baba, MD
Title: “Infliximab Proactive Drug Monitoring in the Pediatric IBD Population”
Role: Co-PI. Source: The Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation
Date: May 2019- Present
Kristen Cares, MD
Awards:
Hour Magazine “Top Doc” 2020
Other Professional Accomplishments:
Grand Rounds, Hurley Hospital, Flint MI. “The Significance of Gluten: Celiac Disease and Beyond”. September 2020.
Presented “How to be a Warrior” at the annual IBD Update hosted by Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. October 2020.
Medical advisor for the Michigan Chapter of Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. Meet quarterly to discuss scholarly updates, conferences, legislature, and future directions for the Foundation. In addition we host conferences, provide educational lectures to pediatric gastroenterologists and families, which is mostly done on weekends and evenings. Jan 2020-present.
Pediatric gastroenterology medical advisor for the IBD Virtual payer/provider Roundtable with IBD specialists across Michigan and payers to improve access to quality care. Nov 2020
Mohammad F. El-Baba MD
Awards:
Hour Magazine “Top Doc” 2020
Other Professional Accomplishments:
Reviewer for “Pediatrics”
Reviewer for “Pediatrics in Review”
Reviewer for “Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition”
Tony Lulgjuraj, MD
Other Professional Accomplishments:
Appointed director of endoscopy – Oct 2020
Appointed associated director of IBD program – June 2020
Regional talk: Lulgjuraj, T. Health maintenance in IBD. Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, Michigan Chapter. IBD
Webinar Series. October 2020. Detroit, MI
Guest lecturer – CHM residency program – Inflammatory bowel disease and Journal Club
CMU special topics mentor
Wayne state university M3 clinical coach
Ad Hoc reviewer for Gastroenterology