Neurointestinal & Motility Program

The NIM program, led by John Fortunato, MD, utilizes a multidisciplinary team approach to create a unique evaluation and treatment plan for our patients. Patients entering the program will be asked by our program coordinator to provide a full review of their conditions in order to provide the optimal care experience. Our state-of-the-art lab provides the most up-to-date motility and neurogastrointestinal testing with novel techniques that allows for a thorough assessment of the patient’s condition. We believe testing and treatment should be individualized for each child’s needs and be respectful of family values. Our family centered model of care includes discussing testing strategies, results and treatment with families and children.

Learn more about the Neurointestinal & Motility Program in the video below. 

In addition to its own program, NIM provides support for several multi-disciplinary programs at Lurie Children's. These programs include:

• The Colorectal Center: A joint program with Pediatric Surgery to treat patients for colorectal conditions, Hirschsprung’s Disease, anorectal malformations and associated spinal cord anomalies.
• Aerodigestive Program: A joint program with Otolaryngology (ENT) and Pulmonary Medicine to support patients with complex airway disorders.
• Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Program: A joint program with Urology and Physical Therapy to support patients with defecation disorders including dyssynergia.
• Chronic Constipation Program (iPoop): A program aimed at partnering with primary care providers to treat toddlers, school-age children, and adolescents with chronic constipation.

NIM has an active research agenda with ongoing studies that include exploring the complex relationship between the autonomic nervous system and GI symptoms/motility and examining clinical outcomes related to bowel management of children with chronic and refractory constipation.  

The program is led by John E. Fortunato, Jr, MD​, Neurointestinal & Motility Program Director and Attending Physician in the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition. 

Attending Physicians 

Alex Green, DO
Peter Osgood, MD
Maria Perez, DO

Clinical Psychologist

Bonnie Essner, PhD

Nurse Clinicians

Julie Shotwell, APN, NP
Emily Santolin, APN, NP
Sarah Cannon, RN, BSN, CPN
Kim Dionisio, RN, BSN, CPN
Regina DeFranco, MSN, RN
Maria Jabeguero, RN, BSN
Abby Branderhorst, RN

Technicians

Ruby Ibarra
Eva Maria Noria

Registered Dietitian

Melissa Talley, RD

Program Coordinator

Sabrina Tsang

Clinical Research Coordinator

Carol Meegan

Medical Assistant

Michelle Torres

Administrative Assistant

Lysandra Lazar