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Hello, I’m Dr. Elliot Fishman, a radiologist at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland. I’d like to talk with you about magnetic resonance angiography, or as it’s commonly known, MRA.
MRA is a noninvasive test that uses a powerful magnetic field and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the major blood vessels throughout your body. It may be performed with or without contrast material which, if needed, will be injected into a vein in your arm.
MRA is used to examine blood vessels in key areas of your body and to identify abnormalities and disease.
If you’re scheduled for an MRA scan, there are several things you can do to prepare for the examination.
First of all, discuss with your doctor any serious health problems, recent surgeries and allergies. If you’re female and there’s a possibility that you’re pregnant tell your doctor as well.
On the day of your exam, it’s best to wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave any jewelry at home. Tell the radiologic technologist if you have medical devices implanted in your body as these can interfere with the magnetic field of the MRI unit.
The magnetic field is not harmful in itself; however, some implanted devices may malfunction or cause problems during the examination.
Most MRI exams are relatively painless. However, some patients may find it uncomfortable to remain still for long periods of time while others may experience claustrophobia. If this is of concern to you, you may want to ask your doctor for a mild sedative prior to the examination.
For more information about Magnetic Resonance Angiography of MRA or any specific question you might have, visit Radiology Info dot org.
Thank you for your time and for your attention!
