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Left Ventricular Maximum Internal Diameter in Diastole, Parasternal View — Doppler

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

An ultrasound measurement of the left ventricle's maximum internal width during diastole, when the heart is relaxed and filled with blood.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
29427-2
Short code
PV-LL Vmax dias DOP
Synonyms
PV-LL Vmax dias DOP
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-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

What is this test?

This is a cardiac ultrasound measurement of the left ventricle, the heart's main pumping chamber. It records the maximum internal diameter of the ventricle during diastole, when the heart is relaxed and filling with blood.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to assess heart chamber size, ventricular function, and structural heart changes. It is often part of a broader echocardiogram and is interpreted together with other heart measurements and the clinical findings.

How is the test performed?

A technician or clinician places an ultrasound probe against the chest and captures moving heart images. The left ventricle is measured using standardized views, and the recorded diameter is entered into the echocardiogram report.

How do I prepare for the test?

No fasting or medication changes are usually needed. You may be asked to lie on your side or back and to remain still briefly while the images are recorded; the technician may apply gel to the probe.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

LV diastolic diameter

Frequently asked questions

Is this test the same as a standard echocardiogram?
It is usually one measurement obtained during an echocardiogram rather than a separate test. The complete study assesses several parts of the heart and how they function.
Does diastole mean when the heart is beating?
No. Diastole is the relaxed phase of the heartbeat, when the chambers fill with blood. Systole is the phase when the heart contracts and pumps blood.
Does an abnormal diameter mean I have heart failure?
Not necessarily. An abnormal measurement can have several causes and does not diagnose heart failure by itself. Your clinician will interpret it alongside other echocardiographic findings and your symptoms.
  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