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Magnetic Resonance
Angiography (MRA)
MRA is a safe and
accurate method of acquiring detailed images of the vascular system
(your blood circulatory system). MRA technique is used to image the
arteries of the brain, carotid arteries, the aortic arch, the
abdominal aorta, renal arteries and vessels of the extremities. An MRA
is a three dimensional view of the anatomy.
Pre-Appointment
The use of a magnetic field presents some limitation. Before making an
MRI exam appointment, let your doctor know about any of the following:
- If you are or may be
pregnant
- Brain aneurysm clips
- Surgeries, especially
of the brain, eye or ear
- A gun wound or similar
injury (shrapnel)
- Cardiac pacemaker or
artificial heart valve
- Inner ear implant
- Metal plate, pin or
other metallic implant
- Permanent eye liner
- Intrauterine device
such as a copper-7 IUD
- Ever been a metal
worker (had metal in your eye, etc.)
- Insulin pump or other
infusion pump
- You are claustrophobic
- Tattoo
Patient
Preparation
You should arrive 1/2 hour prior to your scheduled exam.
For renal MRA and abdominal MRA:
You should have nothing by mouth for 4 hours prior to the exam.
For carotid or brain MRA:
You have no restrictions on eating or drinking.
Patient Experience
You may be asked to remove your clothing and put on a patient gown and
robe. The technologist will tell you what to expect during the
procedure. You will be asked to lie on the MR table where you will be
moved into position for the study. A small needle will be placed into
a vein. The technologist will be outside of the room but immediately
available at all times. You will hear the drumming sound of the MR
Scanner while the imaging data is being taken. The examination will
take approximately 30 to 60 minutes to complete.
Post Exam
Your MR images will be interpreted by a board certified radiologist
and the findings will be given to your doctors. Your doctor will
contact you to share and discuss the results.
Please click the test you are having to find specific information
regarding specific test preparation:
:
Abdominal MRA
Carotid MRA
Kidney MRA |
