I knew as a child that I wanted to become a doctor and better understand why we get sick. My favorite classes in medical school were anatomy, physiology, and pathology. I pay close attention to detail and enjoy the intellectual process involved in analyzing images to reach a diagnosis, so radiology came as a natural specialty for me.
Pediatric radiology in particular is a perfect fit as I love working with children. As a parent myself, I can easily relate to my patients’ parents, assisting with their concerns and challenges.
My specialty area of Fetal Imaging allows me to go one step further. At Cincinnati Children’s, we perform and interpret fetal ultrasound exams and fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Both imaging techniques allow detection of potential problems that can affect babies even before they are born. The information we obtain is essential so that we can start treatment of some conditions while the baby is still in the womb. With other conditions, it will allow us to arrange for a safe delivery of the baby immediately followed by the most comprehensive treatment available, providing the best chance for this child to survive and recover.
I am very fortunate to be a part of Cincinnati Children’s where this unique type of cooperative work is possible through a great network of physicians, nurses, counselors and technologists. Every day I am keenly aware of the essential role that parents play in this process. I learn so much from each family and I am grateful that together we can change the outcome for their littlest family member.
Contributed by Dr. Maria A. Calvo-Garcia and edited by Janet Adams, (ADV TECH-ULT).
