what is an mra

MRA stands for Magnetic Resonance Angiography, which is a type of MRI that looks specifically at the bodys blood vessels. Unlike traditional angiography, which requires inserting a catheter into the body, MRA is a far less invasive and less painful test. MRA uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to evaluate blood vessels and help identify abnormalities. It can detect narrowing or blockages in arteries and identify aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and atherosclerotic disease. MRA is used to examine blood vessels in key areas, including the brain, neck, heart, chest, abdomen, pelvis, legs, and arms. It is a noninvasive exam that doesnt use radiation and is considered safe. MRA may require an injection of contrast into a vein in your arm to enhance imaging of your arterial system.