Adult Congenital Colorectal Program
Reviewed by Edward J. Doolin, MD, FACS, FAAP
Reviewed on
Supporting the transition from pediatric to adult care
As children and teens with congenital colorectal conditions grow into adulthood, their healthcare needs change. The Adult Congenital Colorectal Program helps patients and families navigate this transition with confidence, continuity and support.
Through a close partnership between CHOP’s Colorectal Program and Penn Medicine’s Division of Colorectal Surgery, we offer a coordinated transfer of care. This approach ensures patients are prepared for adult care while remaining connected to the pediatric team that knows their history.
A coordinated transition to adult colorectal care
Transitioning from pediatric to adult care is an important milestone. When the time is right, your CHOP colorectal care team works closely with Penn Medicine specialists who focus on adult congenital colorectal conditions.
By transitioning care through this program, patients gain:
- Access to adult colorectal specialists who can continue care into adulthood
- A streamlined transfer of care between pediatric and adult providers
- Continued connection to pediatric surgical expertise during the transition
- Coordinated access to imaging, testing and adult medical specialists within the Penn Medicine system
Our goal is to help patients feel informed, supported and ready for long-term adult care.
Conditions we manage
The Adult Congenital Colorectal Program supports adolescents and adults with a history of complex colorectal and pelvic conditions, including:
- Constipation
- Fecal incontinence
- Hirschsprung’s disease
- Anorectal malformations, including imperforate anus
- Pelvic anomalies, such as cloacal malformations
- Pelvic injuries
- Myelomeningocele (spina bifida)
- Vaginal anomalies
Care focuses on each patient’s specific condition and needs.
Multidisciplinary specialty support
Congenital colorectal conditions often affect more than one part of the body. Our program connects patients to adult specialists who work together to support overall health and long-term needs.
Colorectal Surgery
These are surgeons who are board certified in general surgery as well as colon and rectal (colorectal) 1surgery. They have a special interest in congenital colorectal disease and the ramifications of the functional issues as well as other concerns as patients continue into adulthood. The Adult Congenital Colorectal Program is closely associated with the Pediatric Colorectal Program at CHOP. Our pediatric surgeons are also able to consult in person at Penn Medicine if needed.
Gynecology
Patients with anorectal malformations or complex pelvic conditions often have related gynecologic concerns. Some conditions, such as vaginal narrowing, uterine differences or ovarian conditions, may not cause symptoms in childhood. As patients reach puberty and adulthood, menstruation, sexual health and fertility can make these concerns more important to address.
Gastroenterology
Adult gastroenterologists may be part of the care team for patients who have digestive concerns beyond surgical needs. This is especially important for individuals with Hirschsprung’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease or ongoing colon function challenges.
Urology
Pelvic differences and neurologic conditions can affect the urinary system. Adult urology specialists help manage both structural and functional concerns to support long-term urinary health.
Our commitment to lifelong care
CHOP and Penn Medicine share a commitment to supporting patients with congenital colorectal conditions as patients move from pediatric to adult care. Through expert collaboration, compassionate care and thoughtful planning, we help ensure patients feel confident as they move from pediatric to adult care.
Contact CHOP
- CHOP colorectal surgery: 215-590-8846
- CHOP GI and motility questions
- Second opinions: 215-590-1678
- Established patients or families calling for new patient visits (not requiring a second opinion): 215-590-3630
Contact our adult care team at Penn
Erika Pettke, MD, MPH, FACS | 
Robert Caleb Kovell, MD |
Sharon Michelle Wolfson, MD | 
Monica A. Mainigi, MD |