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Serum Lactate to Maximum Serum Venous Mixed Venous Oxygen Saturation Ratio (Time-Specific)

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

This test measures how lactate levels in your blood relate to oxygen saturation in your blood over time, often used in critical care settings.

Quick summary

["Helps assess metabolic and oxygenation balance in severe illness or injury."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80039-1
Short code
LV.basal lat Time to S Vmax TDI
Synonyms
LV.basal lat Time to S Vmax TDI
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-tissue-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 This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you’re in the hospital with conditions like shock, severe infections, or heart failure, where your body’s ability to use oxygen or produce lactate may be affected. It helps monitor how well your organs are responding to treatment.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. Blood is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm, similar to other blood tests. You may feel a small pinch, but it’s quick and temporary.

What the Results Mean

This test isn’t a standalone diagnostic tool but provides a snapshot of your body’s metabolic and oxygenation status at a specific time. Results are interpreted by your healthcare team in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used in intensive care settings to evaluate conditions like sepsis, cardiac arrest, or severe trauma where lactate buildup and oxygen delivery are critical.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lactate:SVO₂ Ratio (Time-Specific)

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required, but inform your doctor if you’re on certain medications or have conditions that might affect blood test results.
How long will I have to wait for my results?
Results are typically reviewed by your healthcare team within hours to days, depending on your hospital’s workflow and clinical urgency.
Can this test be done at home?
No, this test is performed in a clinical setting, usually in a hospital or lab, as it requires precise monitoring of blood samples over time.
  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