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Hepatic Vein Blood Flow Velocity (Vmax), Systolic and Diastolic — Doppler Ultrasound

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A Doppler ultrasound measurement of the maximum speed of blood flow in the hepatic vein, including systolic and diastolic measurements.

Quick summary

["This ultrasound assesses how quickly blood flows through the hepatic vein."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29472-8
Short code
Hep v Vmax dias DOP
Synonyms
Hep v Vmax dias DOP
Category
liver
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

What is this test?

This is a Doppler ultrasound measurement of blood-flow velocity in the hepatic vein, the vessel that carries blood from the liver back to the heart. Measurements may be recorded during different parts of the heartbeat.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate hepatic venous blood flow, particularly when heart failure, portal hypertension, liver disease, or blockage or compression of a hepatic vein is suspected. It is generally performed as part of a broader abdominal or vascular ultrasound examination.

How is the test performed?

A technician places an ultrasound probe over the right upper abdomen and uses Doppler imaging to measure the speed and pattern of blood flow in the hepatic vein. The examination is noninvasive and usually does not require intravenous contrast.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. Wear comfortable clothing and follow any specific instructions provided by the imaging facility, especially if the test was ordered as part of a larger ultrasound study.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Hepatic Vein Doppler Vmax

Frequently asked questions

Is this a blood test?
No. It is a noninvasive ultrasound measurement that uses sound waves to assess blood flow in the hepatic vein.
Does the test involve radiation?
No. Doppler ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation.
What does Vmax mean?
Vmax means the maximum measured blood-flow velocity during the examined portion of the cardiac cycle. It is interpreted alongside the waveform and other ultrasound findings.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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