Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Overview, Purpose & Preparation

What is a magnetic resonance angiography or MRA?

You have likely heard of magnetic resonance imaging, which is also commonly known as MRI. This test uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create the images of your body parts to check for potential health problems.

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), also known as a magnetic resonance angiogram or MRI angiogram, is a type of MRI that examines the blood vessels of the body and helps in identifying abnormalities. Unlike traditional angiograms, which require the insertion of a cannula into the body, MRA is a much less invasive and painless test.

During MRA, you lie down inside the MRI scanner. This is a big, tunnel-like tube. In certain situations, a special dye referred to as contrast medium may be administered into your bloodstream so that your blood vessels are clearly visible.

Why is magnetic resonance angiography required?

If your doctor believes you have a blood vessel blockage or narrowing somewhere in your body, they may suggest magnetic resonance angiography. Other conditions that the doctor may assess with this tool include:

• Aortic coarctation or narrowing of the aorta
• An aneurysm, which is a weakness in the artery wall
• Heart disease symptoms
• Stroke
• Aortic dissection, or bleeding along and in the aortic wall
• Blockage or narrowing of blood vessels in the legs or arms
• Renal artery stenosis

How to prepare for an MRA study?

• Wear loose-fitting and comfortable clothing.
• You may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking anything for about 4 to 6 hours prior to the scan.
• Inform your doctor if you are scared of small spaces or have claustrophobia. You may be provided with medication to help you rest and feel less anxious.
• Prior to the study, inform your doctor if you have any pre-existing illnesses, a past history of allergy to the contrast medium, or are taking any medications.
• Metallic objects are not permitted in the MRI scanner room due to the presence of strong magnets. Items to avoid carrying include:

◦ Pens, knives, and spectacles
◦ Watches, credit cards, hearing aids, and jewellery
◦ Zippers, hairpins, or pins
◦ Dental implants that are removable

• Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Tell your doctor if you have any medical implants or devices, including drug ports, stents, heart valves, metal pins, plates, screws, or artificial joints or limbs.

What happens during an MRA study?

Magnetic resonance angiography can be performed as an outpatient procedure or as a part of a hospital stay. For magnetic resonance angiography, you will have to follow these steps:

• You will put on a gown and remove any clothing, jewellery, or other objects that could interfere with the scan.
• An IV will be used if you require a contrast material to help see your blood vessels.
• The technician will help position you correctly on the scan table outside of the MRI scanner.
• Once the technician positions you, the scan will begin. The exam table will slide through the scanner machine, allowing you to enter the MRI scanner.
• Throughout the scanning process, you must continue to stay still, since movement may cause the pictures to blur, resulting in less accurate results.
• It is normal to hear loud noises from the MRI scanning machine.
• The entire scan could take about an hour or more. This is determined by the number and type of blood vessels examined by your healthcare provider.
  The scan has no known adverse reactions or complications. If it is done as an outpatient procedure, you should be free to go home after the MRA.

What to expect after the MRA test?

• When you are finished, the technician will come back to the examination room and remove you from the scanner. If you were given dye for your test, they will help remove the catheter.
• Unless you took drugs that helped you relax, you should be able to resume your normal activities. You might require rest if you took the medication. You must not drive until the effects wear off.
• The findings of the exam will be communicated to you by your doctor. Depending on the results, you may be subjected to additional tests.

Are there any risks associated with MRA?

MRA is generally considered safe. They can be done repeatedly without any risk because they do not use radiation, unlike X-rays. Although rare, some of the risks include:

• Allergic reactions to dye or contrast medium
  Although allergic reactions to the dye are extremely rare, the contrast may result in:
  ◦ Flushing
  ◦ Nausea
  ◦ Headache
  ◦ Warm sensation
  These symptoms are common and should pass quickly. Tell your doctor right away if you experience shortness of breath or itching because they might imply an allergic reaction.
• It can be damaging to individuals who are on dialysis because of kidney problems. Please notify your doctor before the test in case you have kidney problems.
• If you are sedated for the MRA procedure, make arrangements for a ride back home since you should not drive under sedation.
• Strong magnetic fields generated during an MRI procedure can cause heart pacemakers as well as other implants to malfunction. They can also shift or move a metal component inside your body.
• Pregnant women may be at a high risk inside the MRI scanner. Inform your doctor if you are or suspect that you are pregnant.
• Depending on your medical condition, you might be at risk for additional complications. Before the test, talk about any worries you have with your doctor.