Left Ventricular Peak Rate of Pressure Increase (LVdP/dt_max) from Electrocardiogram (ECG)
This test measures how quickly your heart’s left ventricle pumps blood during an ECG. It helps assess heart function and detect conditions like heart failure or coronary artery disease.
["A measure of your heart’s pumping efficiency, often checked during stress tests or ECG evaluations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79988-2
- Short code
- LVPW Time to peak displace US.M-mode+ECG
- Synonyms
- LVPW Time to peak displace US.M-mode+ECG
- 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-m-mode-ecg
- 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 LVdP/dt_max Used For?
Doctors may use this test to evaluate how well your heart is handling pressure and blood flow. It can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting heart muscle strength, such as cardiomyopathy or heart valve issues. This measurement is also useful in planning treatments for heart rhythm problems or after heart surgeries.
How Is This Test Performed?
You’ll lie down on an exam table while electrodes are attached to your chest. A machine records your heart’s electrical activity, including how quickly pressure changes occur in your left ventricle. No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to rest quietly during the procedure.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results are compared to what’s expected for your age, sex, and overall health. Lower-than-expected values may suggest weak heart muscle function, while higher values could indicate stress or other cardiac conditions. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your full medical history.
Is There Any Risk?
There are no risks associated with this test. You may feel mild discomfort from electrode placement, but it’s temporary. If you have a pacemaker or other implanted device, let your doctor know before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Why It Matters
Short name
LVdP/dt_max (ECG-derived)
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What if my results are abnormal?
How often will I need this test?
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