Meet Our Care Team
MyCHKD Patient Portal
Refer to Hemangiomas and Vascular Birthmarks Program
Experts estimate that as many as 60 percent of birthmarks are misdiagnosed and may therefore be treated inadequately or inappropriately. At CHKD, our birthmark team collaborates to diagnose and treat vascular birthmarks, creating a multidisciplinary approach to these complex disorders.
The center’s core staff consists of specialists, in pediatric plastic surgery, head and neck surgery, dermatology, hematology, and radiology, who attend the clinic regularly. Consultants in pediatric orthopedic surgery, general surgery, neurosurgery, gastroenterology, pulmonary medicine, dentistry, medical genetics, and psychology are also involved as needed.
- Hemangiomas
- Port wine stains
- Venous malformations
- Lymphatic malformations ("cystic hygromas")
- Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)
We Offer the Latest Advances in Technology, Including:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including non-invasive angiography and venography
- Surface and intralesional laser therapy, using pulsed dye, KTP, Nd:YAG, and CO2 lasers
- Local and systemic steroid therapy
- Angiography and embolization
- Chemotherapy
- Picibinal (OK-432) sclerotherapy
- Multidisciplinary surgical removal
What to Expect on Evaluation Day
You will receive a call from our nurse coordinator prior to your visit to discuss your child's appointment. The coordinator will meet you on your visit day.
Initial exam: A nurse will review your medical history, taking your child's temperature, pulse, blood pressure, height and weight. If your child is younger than 2, the nurse will also measure your child's head circumference.
Medical team: Your child may see as many as four doctors for dermatology, otolaryngology (ENT), Hematology and plastic surgery in the same visit. In addition to the doctors, there will be nurses and medical residents. This can be overwhelming, be rest assured that everyone is working together to provide the best care for your child.
Photos: We will ask your permission to take photos of your child. These photos are maintained securely for your child's medical record and are used to track changes in your child's condition.
Testing: Your child may need X-rays, EKG or other tests. In many cases, these can be done at the hospital on the day of your visit, reducing the need for additional appointments.
Prepare for a Full Afternoon
The initial evaluation and testing will take some time. Being prepared will help make the day go smoothly.
Don't go hungry. Bring a snack and something to drink, including baby food or formula for infants. (Please, however, check with the doctor before feeding your child as some tests may require an empty stomach).
Plan some activities. Bring a favorite toy, book, game or other activities.
Minimize stress. Bring along a comfort item like a blanket or favorite stuffed animal. Try to leave siblings at home if possible.
Insurance and Billing Information
We accept all major insurances, including Virginia Medicaid, Tricare, and Cardinal Health. Please take the time to understand how your insurance plan works, especially regarding annual deductibles and co-pays, which can affect your out-of-pocket costs.
Unless you have HMO insurance that requires a referral from a primary care physician, a referral is not required. You can simply call our office to make an appointment.
If your insurance does require a referral, make sure it has not expired and remember to bring it with you to the appointment.
Everyone should bring a government-issued photo ID and their insurance card to every medical appointment.
We offer in-depth information about insurance in our billing and insurance section.
