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Hepatic Vein Doppler — Maximum Velocity, Systolic and Diastolic

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

Doppler ultrasound measurements of maximum blood-flow velocity in the hepatic veins during systole and diastole.

Quick summary

["This ultrasound test assesses blood flow through the liver veins and may help evaluate portal hypertension or impaired liver blood flow."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29473-6
Short code
Hep v Vmax sys/dias DOP
Synonyms
Hep v Vmax sys/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 test that measures blood-flow velocity in the hepatic veins, the veins that carry blood out of the liver. The results may include maximum velocities during systole and diastole, when the heart contracts and relaxes.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test to evaluate liver blood flow. It can provide information about conditions that affect the liver veins, including portal hypertension, blood-flow obstruction, or congestion related to heart or liver disease.

How is the test performed?

A technician places an ultrasound probe over the right upper abdomen and uses sound waves to create images of the hepatic veins. Doppler technology then measures the direction and speed of blood flow. The test is painless and does not involve a blood draw.

How do I prepare for the test?

Usually no special preparation is needed. Your clinician may ask you to fast for several hours, particularly if other abdominal studies are being performed, so follow any instructions provided for your appointment.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Abnormal velocities or flow patterns may indicate reduced or altered blood flow through the hepatic veins. This can occur with portal hypertension, venous obstruction, liver disease, or heart-related congestion, but results must be interpreted with the ultrasound images and your overall clinical findings.

Short name

Hepatic Vein Doppler

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require a blood sample?
No. It is an ultrasound examination that measures blood flow directly through the hepatic veins.
Is hepatic vein Doppler the same as a liver ultrasound?
It is a specialized part of an abdominal ultrasound that uses Doppler to assess blood-flow velocity in the hepatic veins.
What can affect the results?
Breathing and body position can temporarily affect venous blood flow. Fasting or other preparation may be requested when this test is combined with additional abdominal imaging.
  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