For Doctors

We welcome referrals for children with confirmed or suspected short bowel syndrome (SBS) and intestinal failure. Early referral is strongly encouraged, as timely intervention can significantly improve outcomes.

Referral indications include:

• Infants or children dependent on parenteral nutrition (PN)
• History of extensive intestinal resection (e.g., NEC, malrotation with volvulus, intestinal atresia, gastroschisis)
• Poor growth or malnutrition despite enteral feeding strategies
• Recurrent central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI)
• Intestinal failure–associated liver disease (IFALD)
• Complex cases requiring surgical consideration (STEP, bowel expansion, reconstruction, transplantation evaluation)

Referral process:

• For local referrals complete the following referral form
• For Global Patient Services:
  • Complete the following referral form
  • Call: + 974 2003 1200
  • Email: international.services@sidra.org

Our Surgical Expertise and Outcomes

Sidra Medicine hosts the region’s first dedicated Intestinal Rehabilitation & Short Bowel Program (BEAR: Bowel Expansion & Autologous Rehabilitation). Our pediatric surgeons are experienced in advanced bowel reconstruction techniques, including:

• Controlled Tissue Expansion (CTE) – Gradually increasing bowel caliber to prepare for lengthening
• STEP (Serial Transverse Enteroplasty) – Increasing effective bowel length and absorptive surface
• Other autologous reconstructive procedures – Tailored to each patient’s anatomy and needs
• Transplant evaluation and collaboration – For rare cases requiring intestinal transplantation

Program outcomes (Sidra Medicine data & global benchmarks):

• Increased enteral autonomy rates in preterm and neonatal patients
• Significant gains in bowel length following expansion and STEP
• Reduction in PN-related complications (liver disease, infections)
• Improved growth trajectories and quality of life

Collaborative Care With Referring Teams

We recognize that many of our patients are co-managed with community and regional hospitals. Our philosophy is partnership, not replacement:

• Shared Care Plans: We maintain open communication with referring physicians, providing regular updates and shared decision-making.
• Education & Training: We offer guidance for local providers in managing PN, preventing infections, and monitoring growth.
• Continuity of Care: Families remain connected to their local providers, while receiving specialized support at Sidra Medicine.

By working together, we ensure children receive the best of both worlds—specialized care at a regional center of excellence and ongoing support close to home.