Cardiac Doppler Echocardiography: Peak Regurgitant Flow Velocity (Echocardiogram)
This test measures how strongly blood flows backward through a heart valve during a cardiac cycle, using ultrasound waves. It helps assess valve function and potential heart valve disease.
["This test evaluates blood flow through your heart valves using ultrasound to detect leaks or abnormal flow patterns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 79919-7
- Short code
- PV Max regurg blood flow vel.E wave
- Synonyms
- PV Max regurg blood flow vel.E wave
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- whole-blood
- Container
- Lavender-top (EDTA)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-doppler
- Specimen volume
- 3 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test uses Doppler ultrasound to measure the speed and direction of blood flow through your heart’s valves. Specifically, it focuses on the velocity of blood flowing backward through a valve that doesn’t close properly, known as regurgitation. This helps identify how severe the leak is and whether it’s affecting your heart’s function.
Why It’s Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or palpitations that might suggest a heart valve issue. It’s also used to monitor known valve problems or after procedures to check valve function.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if contrast dye is used. Wear comfortable clothing and remove any jewelry or devices that could interfere with the ultrasound.
Procedure Details
You’ll lie down on an exam table while an ultrasound probe is placed on your chest. The probe emits sound waves that create images of your heart. The test usually takes 15–30 minutes and is painless.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Peak Regurgitant Flow Velocity (Echocardiogram)
Frequently asked questions
This test helps diagnose and monitor heart valve regurgitation, which can cause blood pooling in the heart chambers. Early detection allows for timely treatment to prevent complications like heart failure or reduced heart function.
You can typically resume normal activities immediately after the test, though you may feel tired or short of breath for a short time. Follow-up instructions from your healthcare provider are important, especially if contrast dye was used.
Common symptoms that may prompt this test include persistent fatigue, difficulty breathing (especially with exertion), chest discomfort, irregular heartbeat, or swelling in the legs or abdomen.
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