Intestinal failure in children and young people with neurodisabling conditions.

Gastrointestinal dysmotility is common in children and young people with neurodisabling conditions. In this article we seek to highlight the increasing difficulties faced by paediatricians in managing intestinal failure in this patient group. It is becoming clear that, as the median age for survival increases, intestinal failure is a significant problem, and can in some cases become life-limiting.

The epidemiology of coeliac disease in South Wales: a 28-year perspective.

Objectives: The diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD) has increased in frequency, particularly since the accuracy of serological antibody testing has improved. Previous studies from South Wales have shown an increase in the frequency of diagnosis from 1983 to 2004 with a decrease in specific gastro-intestinal symptoms, as well as an increasing age at diagnosis.

Aims/methods: We aimed to determine whether the frequency of diagnosis, the age at presentation and the clinical presentation of CD have changed between 2005 and 2011 compared with previously published data from 1983 to 2004.

The provision of paediatric gastrointestinal endoscopy services in the United Kingdom.

Objective: There are no specific data available regarding paediatric endoscopy provision in the UK and anecdotal experiences suggest that such provision varies widely between the units. The aim of our study was to identify the current provision of paediatric endoscopy services in the UK, the number of endoscopies performed in each unit, the number of operators performing these endoscopies and whether endoscopies were performed under sedation or general anaesthesia.

Methods And Results: An email questionnaire was sent to all 31 units in the UK performing paediatric endoscopies and responses were received from 25 centres (81%).

Management of gastroenteritis over 10 years: changing culture and maintaining the change.

Objective: To examine the impact of an implementation program on adherence to a guideline for the management of acute gastroenteritis.

Design: Using four retrospective audits over a 10-year period, the authors examined the change in practice and maintenance of that change following a targeted implementation program for the clinical guideline.

Setting: Tertiary children's hospital in South Wales.

Incidence and presentation of reported coeliac disease in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan: the next 10 years.

Objective: To determine whether there is a continued increase in the incidence of coeliac disease (CD) in the population of Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan between 1996 and 2005 compared with previous data for 1981-1995, and to describe the presenting features during this time.

Design: Retrospective case-finding study using pathology, dietetic and clinical records held in hospitals and general practice within Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan. All local consultants including those at private hospitals were contacted.