Left Ventricular End-Systolic Frame Time by Magnetic Resonance Imaging
This test uses cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure the timing of the left ventricle at the end of contraction (end-systole). It is a functional timing measurement used in specialized heart imaging studies.
["The left ventricular end-systolic frame time reflects the timing of the heart's contraction phase as captured during a cardiac MRI study."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106754-5
- Short code
- LV End-systolic frame Time MR
- Synonyms
- LV End-systolic frame Time MR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- 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 This Measurement Represents
The left ventricle is the heart's main pumping chamber. End-systole is the point in the cardiac cycle when the ventricle has finished contracting and is at its smallest volume. The end-systolic frame time records when, within the imaging sequence, this moment occurs. It is a timing marker rather than a simple size or pressure value.
How the Test Is Performed
This measurement is obtained during a cardiac MRI, a non-invasive imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the heart. You typically lie still inside the scanner while images are timed to your heartbeat, often with ECG gating. No radiation is involved, but the scan requires you to remain motionless for short periods.
Why It May Be Ordered
Cardiac MRI is used to evaluate heart structure and function, including how well the left ventricle contracts and relaxes. Timing measurements such as end-systolic frame time help characterize the cardiac cycle and can support assessment of pumping function. Your care team determines whether this measurement is relevant to your situation.
What to Expect
The measurement itself causes no discomfort; it is derived from images captured during the scan. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during image acquisition. The overall MRI session can take a while, and results are interpreted by a radiologist or cardiologist in the context of the full study.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Left ventricular end-systolic frame time is a specialized cardiac MRI timing parameter. It is interpreted alongside other measures of ventricular function, such as ejection fraction and chamber volumes, rather than on its own. Because normal values depend on the imaging protocol and patient factors, reference ranges are established by the performing laboratory and should be discussed with your clinician.
Short name
LV End-Systolic Frame Time (MRI)
Frequently asked questions
Does this test involve radiation?
Will I need to do anything special before the scan?
Can I get the results right away?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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