What is the minimum left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) percentage required on an ECG test?

The minimum left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) percentage required on an ECG test is 40%. The LVEF is a critical measurement that reflects the percentage of blood that is pumped out of the left ventricle with each heartbeat. In a clinical context, particularly for the Department of Transportation (DOT) medical exams, a LVEF of less than 40% is often a point of concern. At this level, individuals may face higher risks of cardiovascular events, which can significantly impact their ability to safely operate commercial vehicles.

A LVEF of 40% or higher generally indicates that the heart is pumping adequately enough to manage the demands of physical activity and daily life. It provides a threshold for medical examiners to determine fitness for duty, especially in occupational driving scenarios. Values lower than this threshold might warrant further evaluation or disqualification, depending on other health factors and the individual's overall cardiovascular health.