Daniel D. Picus, MD

Daniel D. Picus, MD, Vice Chair of Radiology, is recognized as a compassionate physician and national expert in interventional radiology.

Picus founded the Section of Vascular and Interventional Radiology in 1987, and as its chief, quickly led it to national prominence. The section interacts with nearly every clinical discipline and performs more than 1500 procedures a month. In 2001, Picus took on the leadership of the Division of Diagnostic Radiology. In that position, he still maintains a busy interventional radiology practice.

Picus, a professor of surgery and of radiology, is well known as an unassuming and dedicated physician adept at assessing and solving complex issues. His expertise and innovations in the treatment of pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, biliary injuries and aortic endograft leaks are renowned nationwide. Colleagues report that his clinical approach is marked by outstanding judgment, unmatched technical skills, and an uncanny ability to thoroughly understand the patient.

Also a dedicated educator, Picus has served as mentor to hundreds of residents, fellows, and junior staff. In that role, he stresses the need for interventional radiologists to evaluate patients at the bedside and to continually plan ahead to be prepared for every possible outcome. Last year he was awarded the Department of Radiology’s Teacher of the Year award.

Picus earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois in 1977 and his medical degree from the University of Chicago in 1981. He began his residency at Washington University and served as chief resident. Picus completed fellowships in abdominal and interventional radiology before joining the faculty in 1986.

He is highly sought after as a visiting professor, has held many editorial responsibilities, including editor of the Journal of Interventional Radiology, and has published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles. He is nationally recognized as a Fellow of the American College of Radiology and the Society of Interventional Radiology.