Alan S. Brody, MD

Biography

As a children’s imaging doctor, I provide care for a range of conditions — from broken bones after a fall, to special computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for children with complex conditions. I work with other doctors to use those scans to help make a diagnosis and create a care plan for the patient.

I’m a specialist in imaging children with a special interest in conditions related to the chest.

I know there is a child behind every image I see. When I review scans and other images, I see a child, and standing next to that child, a family. Everything I do is geared toward helping that child and family.

I went to medical school because I like people and I enjoy the sciences. I chose pediatrics because I believe there is nothing more special than changing a child's life for the better. Radiology allows me to work with other doctors to help children.

Almost every patient who comes to the hospital receives some type of imaging — regular X-rays, ultrasound, CT or MRI. Imaging provides ways for us to better understand what’s happening with the child and how to treat it. At Cincinnati Children’s, I’m surrounded by a fantastic team. Working together to solve problems is what we do best.

My research focuses on the use of CT scanning in evaluating cystic fibrosis and childhood diffuse lung disease, as well as minimizing radiation risk.

Today we provide better-quality CT scans with a fraction of the radiation, making the imaging test safer. We have made great strides in cystic fibrosis with patients living longer every year. Twenty years ago, childhood diffuse lung disease was a mystery that no one really understood. We're still learning, but through research, we have identified new disease pathways, developed genetic tests and improved the safety of all diagnostic testing.

I am honored to be recognized by my peers for my work. While still in training, I received the Memorial Award of the Association of University Radiologists for research on MRI. That award set me on the path I'm still following today: mixing research, teaching and patient care to make things better for children. In 1989, I won the Caffey Award from the Society for Pediatric Radiology. It’s a wonderful experience to receive such a high honor from one’s peers. The highest honor I can imagine is when I was asked to join the Fleischner Society. This is a group of 70 people who are considered among the most respected chest physicians in the world.

In my free time, I love working on old cars, woodworking and listening to music. I have three sons who are always my guides in deciding what's important.