University of Miami Echocardiography Lab Leads the Way in Innovation and Patient-Centered Care
Summary
- The University of Miami Health System’s echocardiography laboratory integrates leading-edge technology with a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
- 3D imaging allows for precise assessment of cardiac valves and more accurate measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction.
- AI-driven tools are used to assist with contouring, streamline measurements and enhance diagnostic accuracy while improving workflow efficiency.
UHealth—the University of Miami Health System’s Echocardiography Laboratory is a diagnostic center that also functions as a hub of innovation, collaboration and advanced cardiovascular care. Led by Mehrdad Ghahramani, M.D., UHealth director of echocardiography, in close partnership with Yiannis Chatzizisis, M.D., UHealth chief of cardiology and chief of the Division of Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, the lab has emerged as a national model for integrating leading-edge technology with a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
“We’re redefining what an echocardiography lab can be,” said Dr. Ghahramani. “Our goal is not only to provide the most advanced and accurate imaging available, but to do so in a way that is fully integrated into a patient-centered care model.”
State-of-the-Art Cardiovascular Imaging
The lab features the latest in cardiovascular imaging technology, including real-time, 3D echocardiography. That technique allows for precise assessment of cardiac valves and more accurate measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction.
“3D rendering has dramatically improved our ability to evaluate complex valvular disease and guide interventions with greater confidence,” Dr. Ghahramani explained.
Another key advancement is the use of myocardial strain imaging, a powerful tool in detecting early myocardial dysfunction. The lab uses this technique to diagnose conditions such as cardiac amyloidosis, where traditional imaging may be insufficient.
“Strain imaging allows us to see beyond what the eye can detect in standard echo,” said Dr. Ghahramani. “It gives us a sensitive measure of myocardial function, enabling us to detect conditions like cardiac amyloidosis early, when intervention can be most effective.”
Technology and Cardiovascular Care
The Echocardiography Lab also houses a specialized transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) panel. These experts work closely with UHealth’s structural heart team, providing essential imaging for complex procedures, such as transcatheter valve interventions and mitral clip therapies. This collaboration ensures that structural cases are guided by precise, real-time imaging from physicians who specialize in both imaging and structural heart disease.
Our multidisciplinary model ensures that patients are not navigating this journey alone. They’re supported by a unified, collaborative team.”
Dr. Mehrdad Ghahramani
Artificial intelligence is increasingly integrated into the lab’s daily operations. AI-driven tools are used to assist with contouring, streamline measurements and enhance diagnostic accuracy while improving workflow efficiency.
“We are incorporating AI not to replace the physician, but to empower us,” Dr. Ghahramani said. “It helps us focus on what matters—interpreting the findings in a meaningful clinical context.”
Beyond technology, what truly sets the lab apart is its commitment to a seamless, patient-centered experience. The team emphasizes a “one-stop shop” model, with imaging, consultations and even procedures coordinated in a single visit.
“We understand that, for patients, convenience and clarity are critical,” Dr. Ghahramani said. “Our multidisciplinary model ensures that patients are not navigating this journey alone. They’re supported by a unified, collaborative team.”
With leadership from Dr. Ghahramani and Dr. Chatzizisis, the University of Miami Echocardiography Lab continues to advance the field of cardiac imaging while delivering the kind of integrated, compassionate care that defines academic medicine at its best.
Tags: AI, artificial intelligence, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Dr. Mehrdad Ghahramani, Dr. Yiannis Chatzizisis, echocardiography, technology