Exams Performed in the Echocardiography (ECHO) Lab Echocardiography (Echo) Lab

ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY LABORATORY
The UAB Medicine Echocardiography Laboratory performs medical tests that use high-
frequency sound waves called ultrasound to produce an echocardiogram, or echo. An echo
provides detailed images of the heart’s structure and function and of the heart’s valves.
When coupled with sound waves known as Doppler technology, the echo can be used to
evaluate the speed of blood flow, the direction of blood flow throughout the heart, and any
problems with blood flow, such as a leaky valve. These tests may eliminate the need for
invasive testing in many people.
The Echocardiography Lab performs both two-dimensional and three-dimensional echo
tests by placing a device called an ultrasound transducer (or probe) on the outside of the
chest (transthoracic echocardiogram). The test also may be done by using an endoscopy-
guided ultrasound probe through the mouth and down the esophagus or “food pipe”
(transesophageal echocardiogram), to allow the heart to be imaged without the ribs or
lungs in the way. In addition, the Echocardiography Lab offers stress testing to check for
blockages in the coronary arteries, valvular heart disease, and other conditions.
The lab is nationally accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission, which sets
standards for quality patient care.
Tests Offered:
• Echocardiogram
• Echocardiogram with strain imaging
• Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
• Exercise stress echocardiogram
• Exercise stress test
• Dobutamine stress echocardiogram
• Adult congenital echocardiogram
• Pediatric echocardiogram