Detailed imaging of arteries and veins using a magnetic field. Contrast material is used when needed; otherwise a non-contrast (TOF) technique can map vessels without injection.
Indication
- Suspected aneurysm (vascular ballooning) or stenosis (narrowing) of cerebral arteries
- Carotid artery stenosis assessment in the neck (pre-stroke screening)
- Peripheral arterial disease — suspected leg arterial occlusion
- Renal artery stenosis (narrowing of kidney arteries) and investigation of secondary hypertension
- Aortic aneurysm and aortic dissection follow-up
- Initial assessment of vascular malformations (AVM)
- Vascular anatomy mapping for surgical planning
Preparation
- Fasting for 4-6 hours before contrast-enhanced studies
- Creatinine / GFR test to assess kidney function (when contrast will be used)
- All metal items (watches, jewelry, cards, removable dental prostheses) are removed
- Pacemakers, cochlear implants, and cerebral aneurysm clips must be reported to the physician
- Inform staff about claustrophobia in advance; mild sedation can be planned if needed
How it's performed
- The patient is placed supine on the moving table
- An appropriate coil is placed over the area to be imaged
- Imaging is performed inside the scanner using a strong magnetic field and radio waves; no X-rays are used
- With non-contrast Time-of-Flight (TOF) imaging, vessel maps are produced from blood flow movement
- In contrast-enhanced studies, gadolinium-based contrast material is injected intravenously to highlight vessels
- Headphones or earplugs are provided for noise; a microphone is used for communication throughout
Post-procedure
- No special waiting period is required after the procedure; the patient resumes daily activities
- Plenty of fluids are recommended if contrast was administered
- Results are reported by the radiologist and forwarded to the requesting physician
- If sedation was used, driving on the same day is not advised
Risks
- Rare allergic reaction to contrast material (especially with prior allergy history)
- Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis associated with contrast in advanced kidney failure (very rare)
- Inability to complete the scan due to claustrophobia
- Risk of heating or migration of MR-incompatible implants (compatibility is checked beforehand)
FAQ
Does MR angiography use radiation?
No. The MR scanner uses a magnetic field and radio waves; there is no ionizing radiation. This is a key difference from CT angiography.
Is contrast material always required?
No. In some regions such as the cerebral and cervical arteries, the non-contrast TOF technique can provide adequate images. Contrast-enhanced imaging is preferred when detailed vessel-wall evaluation is needed.
I have a pacemaker, can I have an MRI?
Older pacemakers are not MR-compatible. Newer 'MR-conditional' pacemakers can be scanned under specific conditions. Always show your implant card to the radiology team.
How long does the scan take?
Typically 20-45 minutes. The duration varies based on the area examined and whether contrast is used.
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