MRA - Angiogram

Is a non invasive procedure primarily used to diagnose circulatory problems. Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) utilize Magnetic resonance Imaging (MRI) machine to facilitate the scanning of certain body part that will be examine. MRA uses magnetic field and radio frequency waves to provide 3 dimensional images of the blood vessels inside the body. The procedure is painless and there are no known side effects, either short or long term because it does not use ionizing radiation like X-rays.

MRA has a huge advantage among Xray, Ultrasound, and CT scan as it can find/provide information that can’t be obtained from the latter counterparts. MRA assess the condition, blood flow, and the lining of the blood vessel to detect any anomalies that may lead to more serious diseases.

MRA is done to look for bulge, clot, fat or calcium deposits in the arterial walls, tear in the aorta, and Stenosis of blood vessels leading to critical parts of the body such as the brain, lungs, and kidneys.

The test is usually done with the help of a radiologist or MRI technologist. Before the test the technologist will ask series of question such as allergies etc, to ensure the safety of the procedure. He will also ask you to remove any metallic material (jewelries, dentures, eyeglasses, etc.) as this may interfere with the procedure. It is best to tell your doctor if you have the following conditions: You will be instructed to take of all your clothes except the underwear and you will be given a cloth, depending on which body part will be examined. If you are nervous and you’re not able to tolerate the exam a sedative may be given to ease your nervousness.

You will have to lie on movable table leading into a cylindrical-shaped tube which is only a little wider, deeper, and higher than a human body. Patients are held in position with Velcro-padded straps; bolsters may be added for support and comfort. Devices capable of sending and receiving radio frequency waves are placed near the area to be scanned. For scans requiring the patient to swallow contrast material or receive an injection of contrast into the bloodstream, an IV line will be set-up when the patient is lying on the exam bed. The table is then moved into the tube, either all or part of the way, and usually does not move during the procedure. During the scan, which lasts between 30 and 90 minutes, noise emanates from inside the cylinder as the radio frequency waves are activated. It can be loud so ear plugs or headsets playing music may be offered by the technologist. He/she will look them over for clarity and precision before releasing the patient from the table.

What to Know Before the Procedure

There is little preparation for a scan so, unless told otherwise, the patient may follow their regular daily routine, diet, and medication administration. patients may be asked to restrict their food and fluid intake prior to the procedure. If a patient will be sedated for the procedure, it is advisable to have someone else drive at discharge.

If contrast material is used, there is a potential for an allergic reaction which can be resolved immediately by attending personnel. The procedure is contraindicated for pregnant women.

What to Know After the Procedure

Patients can leave the facility as soon as they feel comfortable and may resume normal activities immediately. Those who have been sedated or received contrast material will be monitored until any ill effects have subsided and they are able to leave safely.

A radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report of his/her findings for the patient's doctor. This report and the images may be available through an internal network or the Internet which allows the referring doctor and the patient to look at them. A follow-up conversation between patient and doctor will involve treatment plans, medication, and/or surgery, as necessary.