Stress Echocardiography or "Stress Echo" is a test that combines a conventional stress test with echocardiographic images of the heart done before and immediately after the treadmill test. It is more accurate than a conventional stress test.
Indicated in patients in whom a stress test is required but an abnormal ECG baseline is present, or in pre-or perimenopausal women that may often have an abnormal ECG reading due to hormonal changes. Because of its lack of radiation and quickness of performance, it is one of the best tests to re-evaluate patients with an abnormal stress test to either rule in or rule out a false positive test or to evaluate the extent of myocardial ischemia to better evaluate prognosis and guide management decisions.
* Reimbursed by most private insurance companies, depending on your coverage plan.
