Two-dimensional echocardiography during exercise (ECHO W) and left atrial pacing (ECHO S) was done in 30 patients 3-4 weeks after acute myocardial infarction. Sensitivity of these methods to detect fresh myocardial ischemia was compared. Their prognostic value during 2 years after myocardial infarction was determined too. Both methods increase sensitivity of simultaneously performed ecg. Sensitivity of ECHO S (80%) was higher than ECHO W (67%). Sensitivity of the two methods altogether was higher (93%) then each method independently. Coexistence of worsening systolic wall motion abnormalities and a decrease in ejection fraction during both examinations may suggest worse clinical course and prognosis 2 years after myocardial infarction.