In a significant move for pediatric healthcare, Dr. Michael Dolinger, an esteemed pediatric gastroenterologist, has joined Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone as the director of its Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Program. This addition brings cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment methods to children suffering from conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Dr. Dolinger’s innovative use of intestinal ultrasound and his leadership in training clinicians across North America have revolutionized the approach to monitoring and managing IBD.

Pioneering Expertise in Pediatric Gastroenterology

In the heart of New York City, during a pivotal moment for pediatric care, Dr. Michael Dolinger, MD, MBA, assumed his new role as the director of the Pediatric IBD Program at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital. As an assistant professor at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, Dr. Dolinger is renowned for his expertise in noninvasive diagnostic techniques, particularly his pioneering work with intestinal ultrasound. Trained in Europe, he became the first U.S. gastroenterologist certified in this advanced method, which provides real-time assessment of disease activity without invasive procedures.

To further advance this field, Dr. Dolinger co-founded iUSCAN, an organization dedicated to training clinicians in North America on the use of intestinal ultrasound. His vision is to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that prioritizes the best outcomes for every patient and their families. Dr. Dolinger will see patients at Fink Children’s Ambulatory Care Center and NYU Langone’s Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, where a holistic approach integrates medical, surgical, nutritional, psychological, and family-centered support.

Dr. David P. Hudesman, director of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease Center, highlighted the transformative impact of Dr. Dolinger’s arrival: “His extensive expertise in both clinical and research aspects of IBD significantly enhances our ability to offer state-of-the-art care.” Additionally, Dr. Nadia Ovchinsky, director of the Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology, emphasized the program’s commitment to improving the lives of children and families navigating these challenging conditions.

Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Dolinger is actively involved in outcomes research and has contributed to numerous national and international conferences. His recent publication in The Lancet offers guidance on optimizing treatment strategies for Crohn’s disease.

Children with IBD face unique challenges, including disruptions in growth, nutrition, school attendance, and mental health. Under Dr. Dolinger’s leadership, the program aims to expand access to cutting-edge diagnostics and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to the needs of young patients.

“This is a transformative step in our ongoing dedication to providing compassionate, family-centered care,” said Dr. Ovchinsky. With Dr. Dolinger’s leadership, the Pediatric IBD Program will continue to drive advancements in treatments while ensuring a holistic approach to improving the quality of life for children and their families.

From a journalist's perspective, Dr. Dolinger’s arrival marks a significant milestone in pediatric gastroenterology. His innovative approach not only promises better outcomes for young patients but also sets a new standard for how we think about and deliver care in this specialized field. The integration of advanced diagnostics with a compassionate, multidisciplinary approach underscores the importance of putting patients and families at the center of medical innovation.