Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
What is magnetic resonance
You’ve probably heard about the test called MRI. An MRI uses radio waves, a magnetic
field, and a computer create a scan of your body to look for health problems.
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a type of MRI. It looks just at the body’s
blood vessels. A regular angiogram requires inserting a thin tube (catheter) into your
body. MRA is a less invasive and less painful test.
During MRA, you lie flat inside an MRI scanner. This is a large, tunnel-like tube. In
some cases, contrast dye may be added to your bloodstream. This is done to make your
blood vessels easier to see. The contrast is put into your vein with an IV (intravenous)
Why might I need MRA?
your healthcare provider thinks that you may have a narrowing or blockage of blood
vessels somewhere in your body, he or she may advise MRA. Other conditions that your
healthcare provider can look for during this test include:
aneurysm or weakness in the wall of an artery
narrowing of the aorta (aortic coarctation)
Bleeding in and along the wall of the aorta (aortic dissection)
the cause of a stroke
of heart disease
Narrowing or blockage of the vessels in the arms or legs
(kidney) artery stenosis, a narrowing of the blood vessels in the kidneys that can
lead to high blood pressure and even kidney failure
What are the risks of MRA?
dye is needed to make the blood vessels easier to see during the test, you may have a
bit of discomfort because of the insertion of the IV.
might also have some anxiety when placed inside the MRI scanner. This is a small, narrow
space. If you think you might be claustrophobic, be sure to tell your healthcare
provider before the scan. You may be given a mild sedative to make it easier to be in
the MRI scanner.
risks of MRA include:
have be injured if you have metal objects in pockets or clothing or metal implants
(such as a pacemaker or bullet fragment) in your body. Before you have the test, you
will be asked a series of detailed questions about any metal you may have in your
have a problem with your kidneys, you are at risk of a severe reaction from the MRA
contrast dye. This reaction can affect your skin, joints, liver, and lungs. If you
have a history of kidney disease, your healthcare provider may decide that an MRA is
not safe for you.
Pregnant women may have additional risks in the MRI scanner. Make sure to tell your
healthcare provider if you are or might be pregnant.
may be at risk for other complications. This depends on your specific medical condition.
Be sure to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider before the test.
Tell your healthcare provider or
the technician doing your test if you:
Have ever had an imaging test (MRA, MRI, or CT) with
Are allergic to contrast dye, iodine, shellfish, or any
Have a serious health problem such as diabetes or kidney
Are pregnant, may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding
Have any implanted device or metal clips or pins in your
How do I get ready for
Before your test:
your watch and any jewelry, coins, and other metal objects from your clothes and
body. Don't forget to remove earrings, ankle bracelets, and other jewelry. This
includes pierced jewelry.
your healthcare provider if you have any metal screws, surgical staples, bullet
fragments, or other metal in your body. This includes a heart pacemaker, intrauterine
device (IUD), implanted neurostimulator, or insulin or chemotherapy port.
want to ask for a blanket or a pillow to be more comfortable on the MRI scanner
plugs can be helpful. The machine can be loud as it does the scan.
What happens during MRA?
may be done on an outpatient basis or during a hospital stay. Generally, it follows this
You will remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan and put on a gown.
If you need a contrast dye to make blood vessels easier to see, this will be given through an IV.
You will be positioned on an exam table directly outside the MRI scanner.
The table will slide into position, placing you inside the MRI scanner.
You will need to lie still during the scanning process. Any movements can blur the images and cause the results to be less accurate.
The MRI scanner typically makes a lot of noise, including loud humming noises, so don’t be alarmed.
The full scan may take an hour or longer. This will depend on the type and number of blood vessels that your healthcare provider wishes to examine.
scan typically causes no side effects or complications. If it is done on an outpatient
basis, you are generally free to leave after the scan. Your healthcare provider will
likely schedule a follow-up appointment to review the results of the test.
What happens after MRA?
healthcare provider will examine the images from the MRA. If no blockages or problems
are found, you have what’s called a normal test result. An abnormal result means that
the healthcare provider noted a problem in one or more of the blood vessels in your
body. This may mean that you have hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) or another
blood vessel problem. Your healthcare provider will likely advise other tests or
treatments based on the results of the MRA.
Before you agree to the test or the procedure make sure you know:
The name of the test or procedure
The reason you are having the test or procedure
What results to expect and what they mean
The risks and benefits of the test or procedure
What the possible side effects or complications are
When and where you are to have the test or procedure
Who will do the test or procedure and what that person’s qualifications are
What would happen if you did not have the test or procedure
Any alternative tests or procedures to think about
When and how will you get the results
Who to call after the test or procedure if you have questions or problems
How much will you have to pay for the test or procedure
Online Medical Reviewer:
Daphne Pierce-Smith RN MSN CCRC
Online Medical Reviewer:
Neil Grossman MD
Date Last Reviewed:
© 2000-2019 The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.