About Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive alternative to conventional X-ray-based angiography. It is performed on an MRI scanner, using specialized software that highlights blood vessels and shows them in 3-D. MRA is used to detect aneurysms, narrowing or blockage of vessels, and other abnormalities. It can be performed on any of the large blood vessels in the brain, neck, body or extremities.

Unlike conventional angiography, which requires injection of iodine-based contrast media through a catheter in a large artery, MRA requires the injection of a non-iodine contrast medium, Gadolinium, into a vein. This procedure is faster, easier, and safer.

What to expect
During an MRA scan, you will lie comfortably on your back on a table that is moved into a large magnet. For a brain or neck vessel exam, a piece of equipment called a “coil” (which sends and receives the radio frequency waves used in this technology) will be placed around your head and neck area. Your head will lie in a foam-lined cradle to help you remain still during the exam. For examination of other body parts, you may lie on a specialized coil.

Injection of contrast media into a vein is necessary for examination of many of the vessels. This is normally done on the inside of your elbow using a specialized injector that properly times administration of the contrast medium with the scanning procedure.

During the scan, as with all MRI exams, you will hear various noises, ranging from a buzzing to a loud knocking. You will be given earplugs to diminish the noise. You will be able to communicate with the technologist via a two-way intercom.

Because an MRA exam can take images or “slices” from various angles, several sequences or sets of images will be taken. Each sequence will last from one to 10 minutes, and the technologist will inform you before the scanning noise begins. The procedure typically lasts 60 to 90 minutes. You must lie very still during each sequence, in order to produce clear diagnostic images.

Patient preparation
Unless sedation is being used to help you lie still, no preparation is necessary. Since the MRI uses a very large, strong magnet, you will be asked to remove and store any loose metal objects such as jewelry or keys.

Side effects and complications
Magnetic resonance imaging does not cause any known long-term side effects. You may experience temporary ringing in the ears, similar to the sensation following a loud music concert. The earplugs should diminish this.

While MRI examination has no known effects upon a fetus, please let the staff know if you think you may be pregnant. In some cases, your scan may be modified or rescheduled later during your pregnancy.

Follow-up care
The MRA exam itself requires no follow-up care.