MRA Services

In magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer produce the detailed images. MR angiography does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). MR angiography may be performed with or without contrast material.

What are some common uses of the procedure?

MR angiography is used to examine blood vessels in key areas of the body, including the:

brain
kidneys
pelvis
legs

lungs
heart
neck

Physicians use the procedure to:

identify disease and aneurysms in the aorta or in other major blood vessels
detect atherosclerosis disease in the carotid artery of the neck, which may limit blood flow to the brain and cause a stroke
identify a small aneurysm or arteriovenous malformation inside the brain
detect atherosclerotic disease that has narrowed the arteries to the legs and help prepare for surgery
indicate disease in the renal artery or visualize blood flow to help prepare for a kidney transplant
guide surgeons making repairs to diseased blood vessels, such as implanting or evaluating a stent
detect injury to one or more arteries in trauma patients
evaluate the details of arteries feeding a tumor prior to surgery
identify dissection in the aorta or its major branches
show the extent and severity of atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries
plan for a surgical operation, such as coronary bypass
screen individuals for arterial disease, especially patients with a family history of arterial disease or disorders