Neurogastroenterology and Motility Center and Disorders of the Gut Brain Interaction (DGBI) Program
The gut and brain are directly connected by neurochemical signals and each system can affect the other. An example of this connection is feeling nervous butterflies in your stomach or the feeling of a pit in your stomach associated with nervousness. For children with disorders of the gut-brain interaction (DGBI), formerly known as functional gastrointestinal disorders, and/or motility disorders getting through the day can be a challenge. Simple activities like eating, going to school, or going to the bathroom can be difficult and even painful. DGBI occur when the signals between the brain, nervous system, and gut are not working properly. This can lead to chronic abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or difficulty swallowing.
At the Children’s Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM), we have doctors, nurse practitioners, and nutritionists dedicated to managing these complex disorders. We emphasize the importance of utilizing a comprehensive, customizable whole-body approach. Our modalities include medications, mind-body practices, custom nutritional plans, and options for additional, advanced testing. Most importantly, we work with parents and children to determine the best, individualized treatment plan for you and your child.
Meet the Pediatric Neurogastroenterology and Motility Team
Director of Motility – Rachel Borlack, MD
Nutrition – Irina Strogach MS, RD, CDN
Clinical Social Worker – Vivian Vallejo, LMSW
Administrator – Nandanie Autar
Technician – Haddy Sallah
Advance Diagnostic Testing
Impedance pH 24-hour study
Esophageal Manometry
Anorectal Manometry
Improving Care for Our Patients through Research
At CHAM we are motivated to provide the best, state-of-the-art care for our patients and families, which includes participating in research to help improve the way we provide care. We are constantly striving to investigate novel treatment options to improve the services we offer. If you are interested, please ask your provider if there are any current research studies for which you or your child may qualify.
Preparing for Your Visit
At your first visit, your provider will review a detailed medical history and perform a physical exam. It is most helpful if you have all previous medical records, including laboratory results and imaging tests, available. This will help your provider make an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan without needing to repeat testing. After the first visit, you may be referred for imaging tests, blood work, stool studies, and/or radiological imaging tests (x-ray, ultrasound, or others). Additional testing may include procedures, including endoscopy, colonoscopy, impedance pH testing, or manometry.
Resources
GI Kids
The Rome Foundation