Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)

If you have been scheduled for magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), it means your doctor would like a closer look at your blood vessels and blood flow in your body. MRA is used to diagnose problems such as a narrow artery, blood clot, or aneurysm. MRA is also sometimes used to plan a surgery or procedure.  

MRA is a type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed images of the body. An MRI system includes a scanner shaped like a donut and a motorized table that slides in and out of the opening. MRI does not use radiation.

Is it safe for me to get an MRA?

For most people, an MRA is safe. You will be asked detailed questions about any devices, implants, or other metal objects you may have in or on your body. As long as your device or implant is certified as MRI safe, you may have an MRA. If there is not enough information or your device is determined to be unsafe, your doctor will schedule a different type of test.

Most MRA exams use contrast, or dye, to make the blood vessels easier to see. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to contrast dye (gadolinium), are pregnant, or have kidney disease.

How do I prepare for the test?

• Eat and drink as you normally do.
• Continue to take your medications unless instructed not to.
• Talk to your doctor if you need medication for anxiety or to help you relax.
• Wear comfortable clothes to your appointment.
• Do not wear jewelry or makeup.

On the day of the test

• Check in for your appointment on the Connect patient portal. You may also check in when you arrive at the imaging center.
• Remove all metal objects, including jewelry, hair accessories, phones, wallets, and keys. We will give you a locker to secure them.
• We will review your medical history and MRI Safety Checklist with you.
• A nurse will insert an intravenous line (IV), usually in your arm. The contrast dye will be administered during the exam.
• A technologist will ask you to lie on the MRI table with your head on a pillow.
• You will be offered a blanket and earplugs. You will also be given an emergency call button in case you need to urgently contact the technologist.
• The table will slide into the scanner, and a red light may shine on your body momentarily to position the area of interest in the center of the scanner.
• The technologist will leave the room but will be able to see, hear, and speak with you at all times.
• During the scan, it is important to lie still and relax so that we can record clear images. The technologist may ask you to hold your breath for short periods of time. The scanner will make loud clicking, buzzing, banging sounds, and you may feel vibrations. This is normal and you should remain relaxed and still.
• MRA exams take between 20 and 60 minutes.

Are there any risks?

MRA does not use ionizing radiation, the type of radiation used in X-rays and CT scans. There are no known harmful side effects associated with temporary exposure to the magnetic field used by MRI scanners. There is a slight risk that you will develop an allergic reaction to the contrast (gadolinium).

If you have a history of kidney disease, there is a risk of a rare but severe reaction to the contrast.

After the test

After the exam you can immediately resume your normal activities. Drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water in the 24 hours after the MRI to help remove the gadolinium dye from your body. A radiologist will analyze the MRA images and will share the results with the doctor who requested the exam. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you.