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Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Volume by Biplane Area-Length Method

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

An ultrasound-based estimate of the amount of blood in the left ventricle when it is fullest, just before the heart contracts.

Quick summary

["This measurement helps assess the size and filling function of the heart's main left pumping chamber."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
93662-5
Short code
LV ED vol Biplane area-length
Synonyms
LV ED vol Biplane area-length
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-d-calculated-by-biplane-area-length-method
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?

Left ventricular end-diastolic volume is the estimated amount of blood in the left ventricle at the end of filling, when the heart is relaxed and ready to contract. It is often calculated from an echocardiogram using measurements taken in two ultrasound views, called the biplane area-length method.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate heart chamber size, ventricular filling, and the function of the left side of the heart. It can help clinicians monitor conditions such as heart failure, valve disease, or reduced heart function.

How is the test performed?

A technician performs an echocardiogram, moving an ultrasound probe over the chest to obtain images of the heart. Measurements of the left ventricle from two views are then used to estimate the end-diastolic volume.

How do I prepare for the test?

No fasting or medication changes are usually required. You may be asked to lie on your side or on your back, and you should tell the technician if you have recently had heart surgery, a heart attack, chest pain, or other heart symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Left ventricular end-diastolic volume

Frequently asked questions

Is this a blood test?
No. It is an ultrasound-based measurement calculated from images obtained during an echocardiogram.
What does biplane area-length mean?
It means that heart dimensions are measured in two ultrasound views and used in a formula to estimate the volume of the left ventricle.
Does an abnormal result mean I have heart failure?
Not by itself. An abnormal value can have several causes and must be interpreted with the rest of the echocardiogram and your clinical history.
  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