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Magnetic Resonance Angiography

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Condition Detail

(MRA)

Definition

MRA is a study of the blood vessels using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Using a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer, an MRA makes two-dimensional and three-dimensional pictures.

MRA Interpretation

Reasons for Test

This test is done in order to:

Identify diseased, narrowed, enlarged, and blocked blood vessels
Locate internal bleeding

Possible Complications

MRIs can be harmful if you have metal inside your body such as joint replacements or a pacemaker. Make sure your doctor knows of any internal metal before the test. Some people may also have an allergic reaction to the contrast dye. Talk to your doctor about any allergies you have. Also, let your doctor know if you have liver or kidney problems. These may make it difficult for your body to get rid of the contrast.

What to Expect

Prior to Test

Before the test, your doctor may:

Ask about your medical history
Perform a physical exam
Do blood tests

If your doctor prescribes a sedative:

Arrange for a ride home.
Do not eat or drink for at least four hours before the exam.
Take the sedative 1-2 hours before the exam, or as directed.

At the MRI center, you will be asked if you have something in your body that would interfere with the MRA, such as:

Pacemaker or implantable defibrillator
Neurostimulator
Ear implant
Metal fragments in your eyes or in any other part of your body
Implanted port device, such as an insulin pump
Metal plate, pins, screws, or surgical staples
Metal clips from aneurysm repair
Retained bullets
Any other large metal objects in your body

You may be:

Given earplugs or headphones to wear. The MRI machine makes a loud banging noise.
Given an injection of a contrast dye into your vein.
Allowed to have a family member or friend with you during the test.

Description of the Test

If contrast is used, a small IV needle will be inserted into your hand or arm before you are moved into the MRI machine. The contrast will be injected during one set of images. It helps to make some organs and vessels easier to see on the pictures. You might have an allergic reaction to the dye, but this is rare

You will lie on a special table. This table will be moved inside the opening of the MRI machine. Most MRIs consist of 2-6 sets of images. Each one will take between 2-15 minutes. You will need to lie still while the images are being taken. You may need to hold your breath briefly. Technicians will communicate with you through an intercom from another room.

After Test

You will be asked to wait at the facility while the images are examined. The technician may need more images.
If you took a sedative, do not drive or operate machinery until it wears off.
If you are breastfeeding and receive contrast dye, you and your doctor should discuss when you should restart breastfeeding. Information available has not found any ill effects to the baby if a breastfeeding mother has had contrast dye.
Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

How Long Will It Take?

40-90 minutes

Will It Hurt?

The test is painless. If contrast is used, you may experience a stinging sensation when the IV is inserted.

Results

Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and any treatment you may need.

Call Your Doctor

Call your doctor if any of the following occur:

New or worsening symptoms
Allergic or abnormal symptoms if contrast material was used

If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right away.

RESOURCES

American Heart Association http://www.heart.org

Radiological Society of North America http://www.radiologyinfo.org

CANADIAN RESOURCES

The College of Family Physicians of Canada http://www.cfpc.ca

Health Canada http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca

References

MR angiography (MRA). Radiological Society of North America Radiology Info website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?pg=angiomr. Updated July 2, 2012. Accessed May 20, 2013.

What is cardiac MRI? National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/mri/. Updated February 2, 2012. Accessed May 20, 2013.

Yucel EK, Anderson CM, Edelman RR, et al. Magnetic resonance angiography: update on applications for extracranial arteries. Circulation. 1999;100:2284.

Revision Information

Reviewer: Michael J. Fucci, DO; Brian Randall, MD
Review Date: 05/2013 -
Update Date: 05/20/2013 -

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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