Stanford Children’s Central Lymphatic Disorders Program
Stanford Children’s Central Lymphatic Disorders Program

Advanced, multidisciplinary care for children with complex lymphatic disorders
Conditions We Treat
- Chylothorax
- Chylous ascites
- Plastic bronchitis
- Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE)
- Multicompartment lymphatic disease
- Lymphatic dysfunction after congenital heart surgery
Our Approach
The lymphatic system is essential to fluid balance, immune function, and cardiovascular health. In children with congenital heart disease or complex circulatory physiology, lymphatic dysfunction can significantly affect outcomes and quality of life.
Our program uses high-resolution, dynamic lymphatic imaging—often incorporating custom technology developed at Stanford—to precisely define lymphatic anatomy and flow. Whenever possible, we pursue selective lymphatic interventions that treat disease while preserving normal lymphatic pathways.
Advanced Imaging & Interventions
- Magnetic resonance lymphangiography
- Contrast-enhanced ultrasound lymphangiography
- Selective lymphatic embolization
- Lymphatic and venous recanalization
- Intestinal-directed therapies for PLE
- Lymphovenous anastomosis / bypass
- Transcatheter and surgical venous decompression
How we do MR Lymphangiography exams
Referrals & Consultations
We accept referrals from Stanford Children’s Health providers and external institutions. Our team offers inpatient and outpatient consultations and works closely with referring physicians throughout care.
Program Leadership
The Stanford Children’s Central Lymphatic Disorders Program is led by a multidisciplinary team with expertise in advanced lymphatic imaging and intervention.
Program Co-Directors
![]() | Gregory Adamson, MD Co-Director, Central Lymphatic Disorders Program Interventional Cardiology |
![]() | Avnesh Thakor, MD, PhD Co-Director, Central Lymphatic Disorders Program Interventional Radiology |
![]() | Ali B. Syed, MD Co-Director, Central Lymphatic Disorders Program Diagnostic Radiology |
Team Members:
David Hovsepian, MD – Interventional Radiology
Andrew Liu, MD – Interventional Radiology
Dung Nguyen, MD – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Shreyas Vasanawala, MD, PhD – Diagnostic Radiology
Chiu-Yu Chen, MD – Pediatric Advanced Cardiac Therapies
Maria Batsis, MD – Cardiac Intensive Care
Kara Furman, MD – Cardiac Anesthesiology
Roberto Gugug, MD – Gastroenterology
Blair Erickson, RN – Nursing Coordinator



