Condition
Pediatric Intestinal Failure
What You Need to Know
Intestinal failure happens when the small intestine can't properly absorb nutrients, vitamins, and water from food.
Key Symptoms
Common symptoms of intestinal failure may include:
- Severe diarrhea
- Poor growth or weight loss
- Abdominal bloating
Diagnosis
Doctors typically diagnose intestinal failure by:
- Blood tests
- Blood cultures
- Diagnostic imaging
- X-rays
Treatment
- Total parenteral nutrition
- Transition to home enteral feeding
- Enteral (intestinal) nutrition
- Bowel-lengthening surgery
Schedule an Appointment
Our pediatric specialists provide personalized care for your child’s physical, mental and emotional health needs. Meet the providers who treat intestinal failure and schedule an appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is intestinal failure?
What causes intestinal failure in children?
What are the symptoms of intestinal failure in children?
How is intestinal failure diagnosed in children?
What is the treatment for intestinal failure in children?
Departments that Treat Intestinal Failure

Neonatology
Whether your infant has arrived prematurely or has a critical illness, the Children's National Hospital's top-ranked neonatology team assists in coordinating every service you and your baby need, including consultations, assessments, emergency treatments and continuing care.