Jennifer M. Vittorio, MD

After medical school, I trained at a hospital with a dual residency in internal medicine and pediatrics. My first clinical experience in the small bowel and liver transplant service drew me into the care of liver patients. I absolutely loved it. At first, I thought I might specialize in adult medicine, but I enjoyed interacting with kids and their parents much more. I got to know their stories and struggles and learned how liver transplant could be lifesaving for these children.

I see young people with a range of liver conditions, including congenital disorders, meaning they are present at birth, and diseases caused by metabolic conditions or tumors. Some children are referred to me for specialized care after receiving abnormal results on liver testing or imaging. The vast majority of my patients do not require a liver transplant—they can be treated medically.

Through our participation in global clinical trials, we are at the forefront of treatment for the itchiness that children experience with certain cholestatic liver diseases—disorders that affect the flow of bile from the liver. These conditions, including Alagille syndrome, progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis, and biliary atresia, can be treated with a new class of medications called IBAT, or ileal bile acid transporter, inhibitors.

As medical director of the Pediatric Liver Disease and Transplant Program at Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital at NYU Langone, I collaborate closely with our program’s surgical director. Collectively, our team of hepatologists and surgeons, an interventional radiologist, and other healthcare providers works to ensure that each child receives optimal care, including liver transplant when necessary.

I have been recognized by Castle Connolly’s “Top Doctors” series for the New York metro area for pediatric gastroenterology. I have a particular interest in preparing our adolescent and young-adult patients for the transition from pediatric to adult care. My goal is to create an educational program to teach them about managing their disease and medications.