Welcome from the Chief
I am excited that you are interested in finding out more about the section of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). We are a relatively young section in the department, having been established in 2018. Since then we have developed robust clinical programs, been heavily involved in the educational activities of the department and expanded our research activities. We are a dynamic section with limitless clinical, educational, and research opportunities.
As with most pediatric sections at UAMS, our administrative offices are based at Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) where most of our clinical activities occur. Our faculty focus on specific areas within the field of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition. Currently these are Advanced and Therapeutic Endoscopy, Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disorders, Intestinal Failure and Rehabilitation, Hepatology, and Aerodigestive Diseases programs. Some of our programs are truly unique. For example, we are one of a select few free-standing children’s hospitals that offer comprehensive on-site and pediatric-gastroenterologist-led therapeutic endoscopy, including endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We participate in a number of multicenter collaborative initiatives such as Improve Care Now (ICN) and the International Intestinal Failure Registry (IIFR). The faculty leading these focus programs oversee cutting-edge clinical care, promote up-to-date-education, and have opportunity to undertake research in their areas. We are poised to add other important programs like fellowship training and neurogastroenterology.
The excellent support from UAMS and ACH has enabled these amazing accomplishments in such a short time. Their continued support assures the ability of the section’s present and future faculty to pursue meaningful projects in their areas of interest, make significant contributions to the body of knowledge in our specialty, and advance the gastroenterology care of all children.
The future of the pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology and nutrition program at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is bright and full of promise.
Warmest Regards,
David Kawatu, M.D.
Chief of Gastroenterology
Professor of Pediatrics
Our Mission
The mission of the Pediatric Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition section is to promote disease prevention and apply advanced medical treatment through research, care, and patient education. In addition to clinical activities, the section conducts basic science, translational, and clinical trials research. The section offers elective rotation educational activities for residents in both pediatric and combined Medicine-Pediatric programs, as well as for UAMS senior medical students.
Our Services
Outpatient
We see more than 6000 visits at our outpatient locations located in Little Rock, Springdale, and Jonesboro. We see patients for various conditions including disorders of growth and nutrition, gastrointestinal bleeding, vomiting, reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (Chrohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), and constipation.
Inpatient
For inpatient activities, most patients are cared for at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Additionally, we also specialize in treating conditions of the liver, eosinophilic esophagitis, IBS, short bowel syndrome, and GI allergies.
Procedures
Our faculty trains medical students and residents on numerous procedures at our two locations in central Arkansas (Little Rock) and northwest Arkansas (Springdale). Procedures performed include routine procedures such as upper GI endoscopy and colonoscopy. Highly specialized therapeutic procedures performed include balloon-assisted endoscopy and video capsule imaging studies.
For appointments, call: 501-364-4000 or visit the Gastroenterology Clinic site at ACH
The People
The section includes eight board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists with academic appointments in the College of Medicine at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. The Clinical Care Team provides patient care with a team approach incorporating the services of four nurse practitioners, two registered dieticians, six specialized gastrointestinal nurses, and a child psychologist.
Additional web links:
ImproveCareNow
North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House
American Association for the Studies of Liver Diseases