Aortic Ascending Artery Maximum Systolic Blood Flow Velocity (by Doppler Ultrasonography)
This test measures how fast blood flows through the ascending aorta during your heart’s pumping phase. It helps assess whether your heart is pumping efficiently and whether there may be narrowing or other issues in the aorta.
["This test helps evaluate aortic health and heart function during systole (when the heart pumps blood)."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11693-9
- Short code
- Fet Aorta ascending Vmax sys DOP
- Synonyms
- Fet Aorta ascending Vmax sys DOP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-doppler
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like chest pain, fatigue, or signs of heart or aortic problems. It’s also used in certain heart conditions, such as aortic stenosis or aortic dissection, to monitor blood flow and heart function during the heart’s contraction phase.
What Does This Test Measure?
The test uses Doppler ultrasound to measure the speed of blood flow in the ascending aorta during the systolic phase. This helps determine if blood is moving normally through your aorta, which can indicate potential blockages or structural issues.
How Is This Test Performed?
You’ll lie on your back with your arms raised or positioned in a comfortable way. A gel is applied to your chest, and a small device (transducer) is placed on your upper chest to send sound waves. These waves bounce off your blood vessels and create images of blood flow speed and direction.
What Should You Expect Before or After the Test?
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to remove clothing from your upper chest area. The test usually takes about 15–30 minutes. You may feel a slight pressure or warmth where the transducer is placed, but it’s generally painless.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Aortic Vmax (Systolic Flow Velocity)
Frequently asked questions
How often will I need this test?
Is this test painful?
What are the possible risks or side effects?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy