Grant Funds Pediatric Kidney Center at UCI

A $1.1-million grant will allow UCI Medical Center to broaden its services to children with kidney and bladder disorders, hospital officials said.

The grant was made this month by Mario Antoci, American Savings Bank’s former chairman of the board, and his wife, Diane.

In recognition of their donation, the hospital will name the new center the Antoci Family Center for Children With Kidney Disorders.

The center may operating as early as January, said Mark Laret, UCI Medical Center director.

High-tech equipment, new techniques and surgery that requires “minimal invasion” into the children’s bodies will be the focus of the center.

The equipment will allow doctors to diagnose children whose kidney disorders are caused by spinal cord problems.

“This gift will enable us to treat children who suffer from kidney diseases in a manner unprecedented in Southern California,” said Allan Shanberg, the director of pediatric urology who will serve as medical director for the Antoci Center.

The hospital is working on the site and buying new X-ray, ultrasound and biofeedback equipment.

For more information, or to schedule appointments, call (877) UCI-DOCS.