By: Lennard M. Goetze, Ed.D, Roberta Kline, MD, Graciella Davi, MBA and Stanley Yip, PhD.
In a compelling episode of Thyroid Talk, Dr. Angela Maza, an endocrinologist specializing in thyroid and metabolic health, interviews Dr. Robert L. Bard, a renowned radiologist and pioneer in advanced ultrasound imaging. The conversation explores the evolution of ultrasound from basic fetal imaging to sophisticated 3D and functional sonography used in cancer diagnostics, thyroid evaluation, and beyond.
Dr. Bard explains how 3D imaging captures high-resolution anatomical and blood flow data in real time, enabling non-invasive diagnosis of conditions like hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid cancer. His innovative work emphasizes "functional imaging"—which evaluates blood flow and tissue dynamics rather than just structural anomalies—as a powerful alternative or complement to biopsies.
The discussion also touches on the use of ultrasound and thermography in detecting melanomas, diabetic ulcers, bone inflammation, and even hair loss, showcasing its versatility in preventive and integrative medicine. Dr. Bard’s collaborative efforts in women’s health, including his advocacy for breast ultrasound screening laws and portable imaging for underserved populations, highlight his patient-first philosophy.
Both doctors advocate for patient empowerment, early detection, and integrative care that bridges traditional and functional medicine. They conclude with a shared vision: advancing non-invasive diagnostic technologies as tools for earlier, safer, and more effective treatment.
A Revolution in Diagnostics
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Dr. Bard (the founder of BardDiagnostics in Manhattan) has dedicated his career to pioneering diagnostic imaging technologies, including 3D ultrasound, thermography, and image-guided cancer therapies. As the proclaimed "Cancer Detective", he applies his leadership in medical radiology as a luminary in imaging interpretation for early detection, predictive reporting and comprehensive diagnostic analysis. In this in-depth interview, he shares insights into the transformational power of non-invasive tools for early detection and ongoing monitoring of complex diseases.
Ultrasound: From Pregnancy to Precision Diagnostics
Dr. Bard began his career at a time when ultrasound was mainly used for fetal imaging. "Eventually we realized we could visualize not just babies but placentas, kidneys, and even tumors," he recalls. With the evolution of 3D sonography, physicians gained the ability to observe blood flow and tissue function in unprecedented detail.
This has particular relevance for thyroid health. "With 3D ultrasound," says Bard, "we can now detect nodules, assess blood flow, and even evaluate inflammation or scarring—all without needing a biopsy." Traditional 2D imaging relies on manual movement of the probe, while 3D scans capture a high-resolution volumetric image in seconds, offering both structural and functional data that can reveal hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or cancer.
The Intelligent Alternative to Biopsy
Dr. Maza highlights that one of the show’s ongoing themes is finding alternatives to invasive procedures. “Dr. Bard’s technology is often described as the ‘intelligent alternative to biopsy,’” she notes.
Dr. Bard explains that patients actively participate in the diagnostic process by identifying areas of discomfort or concern during real-time scanning. This collaboration has led to life-saving discoveries—such as a cancerous node missed by a prior scan but found when a patient guided the probe herself. “When the patient is part of the diagnosis, we’re better. It becomes a teamwork model,” he says.
Functional Imaging: A New Frontier
Beyond static anatomical images, functional imaging reveals how blood flows through tissues and how diseases alter those dynamics. “This isn’t just about what’s there,” Bard explains. “It’s about what it’s doing.” For example, cancers often create their own blood vessels—more vessels signal more aggressive disease.
Dr. Maza ties this to functional and integrative medicine, which focuses on understanding systemic imbalances. “It’s more than the thyroid,” she says. “Autoimmune thyroid disease, diabetes, inflammation—they’re all interconnected.” Dr. Bard agrees, noting that inflammatory skin conditions like psoriasis don’t just affect appearance—they signal whole-body issues, including increased cardiovascular risk.
Dr. Bard’s passion for women’s health is evident. As a founding member of the AngioInstitute, he works with partners nationwide to make diagnostic imaging accessible and effective, especially for underserved populations. His advocacy helped pass a U.S. law requiring providers to inform patients when dense breast tissue could obscure mammogram results, recommending ultrasound follow-up. “Breast cancer doesn’t have to be a killer,” he says. “If it’s found early with ultrasound, it can be treated before it spreads.”
Portable imaging tools are enabling grassroots screening efforts on college campuses and in remote communities. “We gave students handheld ultrasound devices,” Bard shares. “They learned to scan their own bodies, identifying suspicious changes before symptoms developed.”
Beyond the Breast and Thyroid: Expanding Clinical Impact
Ultrasound’s potential extends into many unexpected areas. Dr. Bard discusses its use in diabetic ulcer care, noting how it tracks inflammation and healing without radiation. Thermography, or heat imaging, supplements this by detecting inflammation and infection in deep tissue layers. In cases like jaw pain or potential osteomyelitis, imaging can reveal whether bones are affected, avoiding unnecessary surgeries or missed diagnoses.
Dr. Maza asks how receptive the medical community is to these innovations. Bard acknowledges a lag in U.S. adoption, despite faster uptake in Europe and Japan. “In America, we wait too long,” he says. “This technology is proven—it just needs to be used.”
The Future: Image-Guided Healing and Regeneration
Looking ahead, Dr. Bard envisions a future where diagnostics guide personalized, non-invasive treatments. Technologies like pulsed electromagnetic therapy and red-light therapy are already showing promise in regenerating tissues, including bone and cartilage.
“NASA uses this on astronauts,” Bard notes. “We’ve used it to grow new knee cartilage and reverse osteoporosis damage.” With functional imaging, these therapies can be monitored in real time, measuring progress and optimizing results.
Dr. Maza closes the conversation with a powerful takeaway: “Ask questions. Be proactive. And don’t settle for outdated diagnostics.” Dr. Bard echoes that sentiment. “If something feels wrong, get checked. Ask your doctor for alternatives. And if you don’t get answers, get a second opinion.”
Through their engaging discussion, Dr. Maza and Dr. Bard demonstrate how new technologies—and a collaborative approach—can revolutionize thyroid care and beyond. Patients are no longer passive recipients of care. With the right tools and knowledge, they become active participants in their healing journey.
To learn more about Dr. Bard’s work and non-invasive diagnostics, visit barddiagnostics.com. For upcoming episodes and educational resources, check out www.thyroidtalk101.com.
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THE FUTURE IS ULTRASOUND- JUST ASK THYROID SPECIALISTS!
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Thyroid dysfunction is often silent and missed. Incorporating 3D ultrasound into holistic protocols enhances our ability to detect and address imbalances early, aligning with the biological medicine principle of treating root causes, not just managing symptoms.
