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Hepatic Vein Maximum Velocity (Vmax), Systolic-to-Diastolic Ratio — Spectral Doppler

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

A Doppler ultrasound measurement of maximum blood-flow velocity and the systolic-to-diastolic pattern in the hepatic veins.

Quick summary

["This ultrasound test evaluates blood flow through the hepatic veins and helps identify changes that may affect liver circulation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29477-7
Short code
Hep v Vmax sys/dias insp DOP
Synonyms
Hep v Vmax sys/dias insp 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 from the liver back to the heart. It also assesses the relationship between the systolic and diastolic portions of the flow wave.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to evaluate liver or abdominal blood flow, investigate suspected portal hypertension, or assess the effects of heart failure or venous obstruction on the liver.

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 liver and hepatic veins. Doppler technology then measures and records the velocity and pattern of blood flow.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is usually required. If fasting is requested by the imaging center, follow those instructions, and tell the technologist if you have had recent abdominal surgery or have an active liver condition.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Changes in hepatic venous blood-flow velocity or wave pattern may occur with portal hypertension, liver disease, venous obstruction, or increased pressure on the right side of the heart. The results are interpreted alongside the ultrasound images, symptoms, examination findings, and other tests.

Short name

Hepatic Vein Doppler

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful?
No. Doppler ultrasound is non-invasive and does not use ionizing radiation. You may feel mild pressure from the ultrasound probe, but it should not be painful.
Does the test require a needle or contrast dye?
Usually not. It is performed using sound waves through the skin, and contrast dye is not ordinarily needed for this examination.
Can I have the test if I ate recently?
Often, yes, because fasting is not always necessary for hepatic vein Doppler imaging. Follow any specific preparation instructions from the imaging center.
  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