Series Focuses on Advanced Imaging

Each year, the MCV Foundation sponsors a Discovery Series in Williamsburg, providing guests with access to the latest work of VCU Health scholars, researchers and clinicians. Now in its 10th year, this year’s event highlighted the impact of advanced imaging on health care. More than 230 guests attended the event at the Two Rivers Country Club in October, which included a welcome reception, panel discussion, strolling supper and conversation.

Dr. Peter Buckley, dean of the VCU School of Medicine, moderated the panel discussion, “Another Peek Under the Hood: Advanced Imaging Improves Detection and Treatment of Cancer, Cardiac and Pulmonary Diseases.” The multidisciplinary panel included Dr. Greg Hundley and other VCU faculty: Dr. Ralph Clark, chief medical officer and vice president for clinical activities; Dr. Ann Fulcher, professor and chair of the VCU Department of Radiology and director of abdominal imaging; Dr. Patrick Nana-Sinkam, professor and chair of the Division of Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine; and Dr. Sarah Temkin, professor of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.

The faculty discussed advanced imaging techniques, explaining how they can be used for early diagnosis and tailored treatment.

“Two themes emerged from the dialogue: how imaging not only supports diagnosis but also the prevention of disease, and the value of collaborating across areas of medicine to do the best for patients,” said Buckley.

In the rapidly growing field of cardio-oncology, for instance, cardiologists and oncologists work together to treat patients who develop cardiovascular disease following chemotherapy and radiation treatments.

Hundley, a pioneer in using MRI to identify heart disease in cancer patients, talked about his research with attendants. “The discovery series was an excellent discussion about utilization of imaging in health care. Afterwards, attendees expressed a lot of interest in the cardiovascular magnetic resonance capabilities at the new Cardiovascular Imaging Center,” he said.