Transition of care in pediatric surgical patients with complex gastrointestinal disease

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Transition of Care

Background:

• Pediatric surgeons manage diverse congenital and acquired conditions in children.
• Many gastrointestinal conditions have excellent long-term prognoses, necessitating lifelong care.
• A lack of guidance exists for the long-term management of these patients into adulthood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss essential aspects of transitioning care for pediatric surgical patients with complex gastrointestinal disorders.
• To provide guidance for adult practitioners assuming care from pediatric specialists.
• To highlight challenges and strategies for lifelong management.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature and clinical practice guidelines.
• Discussion of specific case examples including short bowel syndrome, Hirschsprung Disease, and anorectal malformations.
• Identification of key elements for successful care transition.

Main Results:

• Transitioning care requires a multidisciplinary approach.
• Patient and family education is crucial for long-term self-management.
• Standardized protocols for adult care are needed.

Conclusions:

• Successful transition of care ensures optimal long-term outcomes for pediatric surgical patients.
• Addressing the unique needs of adults with childhood-onset gastrointestinal conditions is vital.
• Further research and development of transition protocols are warranted.