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Pulmonary Valve Regurgitant Jet Maximum Velocity, Diastolic — Doppler Echocardiography

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

This Doppler echocardiography measurement records the highest backward blood-flow velocity across the pulmonary valve during diastole, when the heart relaxes.

Quick summary

["The result helps assess pulmonary valve leakage and may contribute to evaluating right-sided heart function and pulmonary artery pressures."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18165-1
Short code
PV reg Vmax dias DOP
Synonyms
PV reg 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 Doppler ultrasound measurement of the pulmonary valve. It estimates the maximum velocity of blood moving backward from the pulmonary artery into the right ventricle during diastole, the phase when the heart relaxes.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used as part of an echocardiogram to assess pulmonary valve regurgitation, monitor heart conditions or valve repairs, and help evaluate right-sided heart function and pulmonary artery pressures.

How is the test performed?

A technician places an ultrasound probe on the chest and uses Doppler ultrasound to record blood flow through the pulmonary valve. The maximum measured velocity is used along with other echocardiographic findings.

How do I prepare for the test?

No fasting or medication changes are usually needed. Wear comfortable clothing, and tell the technician if you have recently had heart surgery or a repaired heart valve. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly during the examination.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Maximum pulmonary valve regurgitation velocity

Frequently asked questions

Does this test require a blood sample?
No. It is measured noninvasively during a Doppler echocardiogram.
What does pulmonary valve regurgitation mean?
It means some blood flows backward through the pulmonary valve when the heart relaxes. A small amount can be present without symptoms, while larger amounts may affect the right side of the heart.
Can this result diagnose pulmonary hypertension by itself?
No. The velocity can contribute to the assessment, but pulmonary hypertension is diagnosed or excluded using several echo findings and the clinical evaluation.
  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