Maximum Regurgitant Flow Rate via Doppler Echocardiography (Tricuspid or Pulmonic Valve)
This test measures how strongly blood flows backward through the tricuspid or pulmonic heart valve using Doppler ultrasound. It helps assess valve function and potential heart valve disorders.
["Evaluates blood flow through heart valves to check for leaks or abnormal flow patterns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20254-9
- Short code
- TV Regurg bld flow 2.max DOP
- Synonyms
- TV Regurg bld flow 2.max DOP
- 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-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 This Test Measures
The test uses ultrasound waves to detect and measure the speed and volume of blood flowing backward through the tricuspid or pulmonic valve. This backward flow, called regurgitation, can indicate whether the valve is leaking or not working properly.
Why It’s Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, or swelling that could suggest heart valve problems. It’s also used to monitor known heart valve conditions or after procedures like valve repairs.
How the Test Works
During the procedure, a small probe is placed on your chest. The ultrasound detects blood flow patterns through the heart valves. The Doppler technique converts these flow patterns into audible sounds and visual measurements to calculate the regurgitant flow rate.
Preparation
No special preparation is needed. You may be asked to lie still on an exam table while the technician applies gel to your chest and moves the probe in different positions to capture accurate readings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Max Tricuspid/Pulmonic Regurgitant Flow Rate
Frequently asked questions
This test helps diagnose or monitor heart valve regurgitation, which can cause blood pooling in the heart chambers. Early detection allows for timely treatment, such as valve repair or replacement, to improve heart function and quality of life.
What are the common symptoms that might lead to this test?
How long does the test take, and is it painful?
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