Cardiovascular Imaging Services

UAB Cardiovascular Imaging Services uses the latest two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D) technology to obtain images of the heart and the vascular system (arteries and veins). This technology is non-invasive, meaning that it doesn’t require incisions or inserting instruments inside the body. The resulting images allow physicians to evaluate the function of the heart and vascular system and develop a medical and/or surgical treatment plan for coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, rhythm disturbances, valve disease, and other heart and vascular conditions.

The types of cardiovascular imaging tests we perform are grouped into four general areas:

  • Echocardiogram (echo), which produces images using sound waves.
  • Nuclear cardiology, which produces images by detecting radiation from different parts of the body after a radioactive “tracer” is given to the patient.
  • Cardiographics testing and monitoring, a group of diagnostic tools that includes electrocardiogram (ECG) testing, which is a recording of the heart’s electrical activity, and heart monitors, which patients may wear for days or weeks at a time.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which produces images using a large magnet and radio waves.

All four types of imaging are commonly used, and each offers various advantages depending on your particular case. Advanced post-processing technology allows the images to be shown in two, three, and four dimensions, which helps physicians make the most accurate diagnosis and treat conditions more effectively.

Why UAB

UAB Cardiovascular Imaging Services is committed to providing service in ways that promote mutual trust and patient confidence. All of our staff are certified in their field of practice and registered, and they are committed to doing right the first time, owning their actions, always caring, and working as a team. These core values are part of the UAB Medicine culture and contribute to our commitment to sustaining the highest ethical standards of care. We integrate each of these values into patient care, teaching, research, business practices, and all other aspects of delivering top-notch service. Ethical conduct is the most basic expectation for every member of the UAB Medicine community.

UAB Medicine also provides expert, personalized primary cardiology services from our general cardiology clinics at UAB Hospital, UAB Hospital-Highlands, The Kirklin Clinic of UAB Hospital, and The Kirklin Clinic at Acton Road, our suburban outpatient center just off of Interstate 459 in the Altadena community. Our team of cardiologists and highly trained imaging specialists provide the highest level of evidence-based care and friendly, personalized service that is backed by UAB Medicine’s sophisticated facilities and equipment.