Ejection Fraction is a test that determines how well your heart pumps with each beat. Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) is the measurement of how much blood is being pumped out of the left ventricle (main pumping chamber) with each contraction.

Your cardiologist can measure your ejection fraction in a variety of ways, the most common being an echocardiogram/Echo. An echocardiogram is a painless test that uses sound waves to show how well your heart is functioning. A normal healthy heart has an ejection fraction of 55-75%. An ejection fraction between 35 and 55 could indicate damage to the heart muscle, possible from a previous heart attack. A measurement under 35 may be evidence of heart failure.