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.
This test is done to:
If your doctor prescribes a sedative:
At the MRI center:
You may be:
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 will 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. The technician will be in another room. You will be able to talk to her through an intercom.
40-90 minutes
The test is painless. However, you may notice the following:
Your doctor will discuss the findings with you and any treatment you may need.
RESOURCES:
American Heart Association
http://www.americanheart.org/
RadiologyInfo
http://www.radiologyinfo.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
College of Family Physicians of Canada
http://www.cfpc.ca/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php/
References:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). University of Iowa Department of Radiology website. Available at: http://www.radiology.uiowa.edu/MRI/index.html . Accessed July 27, 2009.
MRI. HeartCenterOnline website. Available at: http://yourtotalhealth.ivillage.healthline.com/adamcontent/mri . Updated October 2008. Accessed July 27, 2009.
MR angiography (MRA). RadiologyInfo website. Available at: http://www.radiologyinfo.org . Updated June 3009. Accessed July 27, 2009.
Yucel EK, Anderson CM, Edelman RR, et al. Magnetic resonance angiography: update on applications for extracranial arteries. Circulation . 1999;100:2284.
Last reviewed September 2010 by Arun Kalyanasundaram, MD, MPH
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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