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Mitral Valve Annulus End-Diastolic Diameter, Parasternal Long-Axis View

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

An echocardiographic measurement of the mitral valve annulus, the ring that supports the heart's mitral valve, recorded in a parasternal long-axis view.

Quick summary

["This echocardiogram measurement shows the size of the ring supporting the heart's mitral valve."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
80052-4
Short code
MV ann ED diameter PLAX
Synonyms
MV ann ED diameter PLAX
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-plax
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 an ultrasound measurement of the mitral valve annulus, the fibrous ring around the opening between the left atrium and left ventricle. It is typically obtained during an echocardiogram using a parasternal long-axis view.

Why might I need this test?

The measurement may help evaluate heart chamber size, mitral valve anatomy, and structural heart disease. It is often considered alongside other echocardiogram findings, such as valve function, blood flow, and chamber measurements.

How is the test performed?

A technician uses an ultrasound probe to create images of the heart. The mitral valve annulus is measured on the recorded images, generally while you lie on your side and briefly hold your breath if requested.

How do I prepare for the test?

No blood draw or special laboratory preparation is needed. Follow the clinic's instructions, and tell the technician if you have recently had heart surgery, chest pain, or symptoms such as shortness of breath or fainting.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A mitral annulus diameter that is larger or smaller than expected may reflect differences in heart anatomy, chamber size, or structural heart and valve disease. Interpretation depends on age, body size, image quality, and the other echocardiogram measurements, so this result is not diagnostic by itself.

Short name

Mitral valve annulus diameter

Frequently asked questions

Is this a blood test?
No. It is a measurement taken with an ultrasound heart scan called an echocardiogram.
What does the mitral valve annulus do?
The annulus is the fibrous ring that supports the mitral valve and helps it seal when the left ventricle contracts.
Does an abnormal result mean I have mitral valve disease?
Not necessarily. The diameter is interpreted together with valve motion, blood-flow measurements, heart chamber size, symptoms, and your medical 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