MR angiography

What is MRA? 

MRA stands for Magnetic Resonance Angiography and is focused on the blood vessels to detect clots, plaque and aneurysms affecting the arteries. The scan can also reveal possible vasoconstriction or varicose veins and is often used to examine various arteries (neck, brain, chest, abdominal, kidney, and leg arteries).

MRA can also be done without contrast (dye) using the high signal from blood and signal loss from blood flow.

During an MRA the contrast (dye) is used to enhance the arteries and allow for sharp, high-quality images to be generated. The dye is a clear, liquid solution injected through a soft cannula and eliminated through the kidneys. 

• Cerebral MR angiography / Brain MRA
• Kidney MR angiography / Renal Angiography
• Chest MRA
• Abdominal MRA
• Neck MRA
• Leg arteries MRA
• Vascular MRI
• MRCP  (Cholangiography)

Contrast (dye)

Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.

It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:

• Tumours
• Inflammation
• Blood vessels
• Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue

The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.

Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye