Abdominal Imaging
Physicians in the abdominal imaging section have special expertise and experience in performing and interpreting abdominal and pelvic CT and MRI scans—as well as fluoroscopy.
In addition, CT and ultrasound-guided interventional procedures, including radiofrequency ablation of abdominal lesions, biopsies, and abscess drainages, are all performed by the abdominal imaging team using our state-of-the-art technology.
For information about our abdominal imaging fellowship, click here.
Section Chief and Members
Virginia Planz, MD
Section Chief, Abdominal Imaging
Director, Grand Rounds
Assistant Professor of Clinical Radiology and Radiological Sciences
Abdominal Imaging Section Members
William Barret, MD, MS
Kimberly Brennan, MD
Candace Brown, MD
Erin Cooke, MD
Lori Deitte, MD
Michael Fleming, MD
Ricardo Fonseca, MD
Katherine Frederick-Dyer, MD, MRMD
Adam Guttentag, MD
Steve Harris, MD, PhD
Bryan Hartley, MD
Chris Jones, MD
William Laxton, MD
Samuel Ostrum, MD
Krupa Patel-Lippmann, MD
Catherine Phillips, MD
Melissa Picard, MD
Geoffrey Wile, MD
Ultrasound
Our Ultrasound faculty provide world class patient care, teaching and research in multiple sites including Vanderbilt University Hospital, The Vanderbilt Clinic, the Center for Women's Imaging and at several of our outpatient imaging sites.
Ultrasound/Diagnostic Sonography
Our sonographers are experienced and compassionate, and use state-of-the-art equipment including the latest in 3D, color Doppler and innovative techniques such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Our sonologists are recognized experts and provide instruction to radiology and Ob/Gyn residents, medical students and sonographers. Our physicians also participate in training of the Body Imaging and Women's Imaging fellows.
We also have a Diagnostic Medical Sonography Program that takes advantage of the wide range of procedures and environments in which sonography is practiced at Vanderbilt.
Our section is involved in several clinical trials and has extensive experience in both clinical and basic science investigations. Clinically, we are involved in NIH- and NCI-sponsored research in the use of microbubble contrast for the early detection of ovarian cancer with transvaginal sonography, follow-ups of hepatocellular cancer post ablation and assessment of lymphadema. We are also evaluating the use of microbubble contrast for enhanced sonographic evaluation of focal liver lesions. In basic research, our group is investigating the use of microbubble research for assessment of tumor response and as a means to provide enhanced treatment.
Clinically, we provide expedient and accurate assessments of a variety of obstetric, gynecologic, abdominal, vascular and endocrine applications. We also provide guided biopsy and intra-operative assistance. Our inpatient facility provides 24/7 coverage.
Catherine H. Phillips, MD
Medical Director, Ultrasound
Assistant Professor of Radiology and Radiological Sciences
Ultrasound Section Members
