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Some children who have episodes of breathing problems have VCD. This occurs when the vocal cords close when breathing in, instead of opening.
This closing partially blocks the airway.
These uncontrolled movements are short-term. Exercise, stress, and other irritants can be triggers.
Although VCD isn't a long-term condition, it can have serious impacts on children's lives. It can limit their enjoyment of sports and social events.
At UPMC Children's Hospital, we offer a unique center to diagnose and treat children who have VCD.
Our Vocal Cord Dysfunction Center helps kids avoid and control VCD symptoms so their diagnosis no longer holds them back.
To learn more or book an appointment for your child's VCD, call 412-692-9877.
VCD is a rare condition that requires the knowledge of many experts.
At the VCD Center, we offer:
Sometimes, our tests find another airway problem (such as asthma, vocal cord paralysis, or voice box issue). In this case, we will direct you to the best doctor for a consult — often on the same day.
At the VCD Center:
Children and their caregivers travel from across Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, West Virginia, and Maryland to access our center.
As a major referral hospital, UPMC Children's accepts most health plans.
We suggest you contact your insurer before your visit to make sure they'll cover our services. We're also happy to give them any information they need.
Although your health insurance may not require a specialist referral, a referral order from a provider referring your child to the Vocal Cord Dysfunction Clinic is required.
We receive referrals from across Pennsylvania, as well as Maryland, New York, Ohio, and West Virginia. Before scheduling, verify with your insurer and referring provider whether your plan is in-network.
Prior authorization may be required from your health insurance depending on your health plan's network and the care your child needs. Please ensure all referrals and prior authorizations are secured prior to your visit. This will ensure the services we provide will be covered by your health insurance.
Children's Hospital's main campus is located in the Lawrenceville neighborhood. Our main hospital address is:
UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh One Children’s Hospital Way 4401 Penn Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15224
In addition to the main hospital, Children's has many convenient locations in other neighborhoods throughout the greater Pittsburgh region.
With myCHP, you can request appointments, review test results, and more.
For questions about a hospital bill call:
To pay your bill online, please visit UPMC's online bill payment system.
Interested in giving to Children's Hospital? Support the hospital by making a donation online, joining our Heroes in Healing monthly donor program, or visiting our site to learn about the other ways you can give back.