Decision-making patterns in managing children with suspected biliary dyskinesia.

AIM: To explore and to analyze the patterns in decision-making by pediatric gastroenterologists in managing a child with a suspected diagnosis of functional gallbladder disorder (FGBD).

METHODS: The questionnaire survey included a case history with right upper quadrant pain and was sent to pediatric gastroenterologists worldwide via an internet list server called the PEDGI Bulletin Board.

RESULTS: Differences in decision-making among respondents in managing this case were observed at each level of investigations and management. Cholecystokinin-scintigraphy scan (CCK-CS) was the most common investigation followed by an endoscopy. A proton pump inhibitor was most commonly prescribed treating the condition. The majority of respondents considered a referral for a surgical evaluation when CCK-CS showed a decreased gallbladder ejection fraction (GBEF) value with biliary-type pain during CCK injection.

CONCLUSION: CCK infusion rate in CCK-CS-CS and GBEF cut-off limits were inconsistent throughout practices. The criteria for a referral to a surgeon were not uniform from one practitioner to another. A multidisciplinary team approach with pediatric gastroenterologists and surgeons is required guide the decision-making managing a child with suspected FGBD. ​.