Advancing Evidence-Based Care for Common and Complex Pediatric GI Conditions

As Division Co-Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Medical Director of Nutrition Support and Intestinal Rehabilitation at Riley Children's Health, Charles P. Vanderpool, MD, cares for children with some of the most complex gastrointestinal and nutritional conditions. His clinical and academic work focuses on translating evidence-based research into practical guidance that improves care for children and families.

Ahead of the upcoming IU Health International Pediatric Complex Care Conference, Dr. Vanderpool shares insights on common pediatric GI conditions, emerging trends in the field, and his approach to caring for children with complex medical needs.

What are some of the most important topics you'll be discussing?

Diarrhea, constipation and reflux remain among the most common gastrointestinal issues seen by pediatricians and primary care providers, and they occur even more frequently in children with complex medical conditions.

At the conference, we'll discuss the epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, including evidence-based guidelines and clinical algorithms that can help providers manage common GI concerns. We'll also review when referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist may be appropriate for additional evaluation or treatment.

What advancements or evolving practices in pediatric gastroenterology should providers be aware of?

One important area is the evolving approach to infant reflux. Current societal guidelines recommend against the routine use of acid suppression therapies for many infants, prompting a greater focus on alternative management strategies.

We're also seeing advances in diagnosing infectious gastroenteritis, particularly through newer non-culture testing methods that can help identify causes more efficiently. Understanding when these tests are appropriate is increasingly important for providers caring for children with gastrointestinal symptoms.

What aspect of caring for children with complex conditions are you most passionate about?

I am passionate about partnering with parents in the healthcare of their children. Healthcare providers should help families define and set goals rather than assign them. When providers and families work together as partners, we are more likely to achieve the best possible outcomes and improve children's overall health and quality of life.

How does your work at Riley Children's Health shape your perspective on these topics?

As Medical Director of Nutrition Support and Intestinal Rehabilitation, I work closely with children who have complex gastrointestinal and nutritional needs. The conditions discussed during these presentations are issues I encounter regularly in clinical practice.

My goal is to share both evidence-based guidelines and practical lessons learned through caring for these patients, helping providers apply the latest recommendations in real-world settings.

Learn More at the International Pediatric Complex Care Conference

Dr. Vanderpool will be among the Riley Children’s experts presenting at the IU Health International Pediatric Complex Care Conference, where clinicians from across disciplines will share practical strategies and emerging advances for caring for children with complex medical needs.

Learn more and register: IU Health International Pediatric Complex Care Conference