Congenital Hemangioma

There is no known cause of congenital hemangioma at this time. However, it is well understood that it is not a hereditary condition. The first and most obvious sign of a congenital hemangioma is they are present at birth. Colors vary from pink to purple and lesions are typically slightly raised in appearance. It is not unusual to observe what are known as telangiectasia, which are basically thread veins.

In the case of congenital hemangioma, the most common locations are on the limbs, around the face and neck. There are congenital hemangioma that are so severe they result in the heart working harder to keep blood circulating. In these cases, there is the risk of complications arising, one of which is sudden heart failure.

Diagnosis can occur during pregnancy if imaging equipment picks up the hemangioma. However, a congenital hemangioma is always visible from the moment of birth. There are a number of risks that may stem from a congenital hemangioma, mainly resulting from the impact on blood flow, which will require you to take your child for an evaluation at the Vascular Birthmark Center.

Congenital Hemangioma Treatment

There are two types of congenital hemangioma: RICH-type or NICH-type. The same medicinal options that are used in infantile hemangiomas are not suitable for congenital hemangiomas. Dr. Greg Levitin will evaluate each child on a case-by-case basis. However, special consideration will be given to patients where increased blood flow is observed in the hemangioma. A procedure known as an embolization is often recommended to reduce the blood flow by blocking key blood vessels.

Surgery is usually a viable option for completely removing a congenital hemangioma. The amount of scarring that results will depend on the size of the original growth, the skill of the surgeon and the tools used during the procedure. Dr. Greg Levitin will go to great lengths to ensure the risk of facial nerve damage is reduced by using an intraoperative nerve monitoring system to assist throughout the procedure.

Residual thread veins are not unusual after a congenital hemangioma been removed. However, Dr. Levitin will bring your child back for a post procedure checkup. Then, he will be better able to determine whether laser therapy is needed to make further cosmetic improvement to the treatment site. Vascular birthmark treatment and removal is an ever-evolving field of medicine. The Vascular Birthmark Center is at the forefront in delivering the latest and most effective treatment options.

If you would like to provide your child with the most effective and visually appealing results from congenital hemangioma removal, put your trust in the team from the Vascular Birthmark Center with offices in New York and Los Angeles. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.