Vascular birthmarks are common and many require no treatment. However, anomalies can range from a simple skin discoloration to large malformations that may require the coordination of both medical and surgical specialists to treat.

In the Vascular Anomalies Center, an interdisciplinary team evaluates and treats vascular anomalies in children. The team includes specialists from Otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat), Plastic Surgery, Dermatology, Hematology, Pediatric General Surgery and Interventional Radiology.

Conditions we treat

• Hemangiomas
• Lymphatic malformations
• Venous malformations
• Capillary malformations (port wine stains)
• Arteriovenous malformations
• Combined vascular malformations
• Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma
• Gorham-Stout disease
• Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT)
• Combined vascular malformations (Klippel-Trenaunay, Parkes Weber and CLOVES syndromes
• Lymphedema

Why choose Children’s Colorado for vascular anomalies and malformations? 

Hemangiomas and most venous and lymphatic malformations are noticed either at birth or in the first few years of life. At Children’s Colorado, all of our specialists come to one appointment with you to minimize the number of visits needed to evaluate and treat your child’s condition. If radiographs such as MRI or CT scans are needed, it is important to know that the amount of radiation or energy needed to perform the test is individualized per the patient’s weight and size in our state-of the-art facilities. This cannot be done at most adult hospitals.

What to expect in the Vascular Anomalies Clinic

Our team holds weekly clinics for interdisciplinary evaluation of patients. Members from all disciplines evaluate patients together and discuss the findings, review the radiographs (x-rays), make a diagnosis when possible and formulate a treatment plan - all together with you in the examination room. Further tests can be ordered, such as ultrasounds and MRI scans when needed, and treatment may be started with a prescription. If laser treatment is recommended, we can assist with scheduling. No invasive testing is done in the clinic but occasionally a blood sample is requested from the lab. After the comprehensive evaluation, you may follow up with one, several or all of the specialists as needed.

Typical treatments include laser therapy, sclerotherapy and surgery. Most of our families only need reassurance; we are here for that as well.