Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)

A magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to see blood vessels inside the body. A dye (contrast material) is often used during an MRA to make blood vessels show up more clearly.

An MRA can often provide information that is not available from X-rays, ultrasounds or computed tomography (CT) scans. With an MRA, both the blood flow and the condition of the blood vessel walls can be seen. An MRA is done to look for:

• A bulge (aneurysm), clot or the buildup of fat and calcium deposits in the blood vessels leading to the brain
• An aneurysm or tear (dissection) in the aorta, which carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body
• Narrowing of the blood vessels leading to the heart, lungs, kidneys or legs

A Mercy radiologist will review your images and report the findings to your cardiologist. In some cases, your cardiologist may be present during the MRA.

If you need additional care or follow-up tests, you’re in good hands at Mercy. Our goal is to provide you with complete and compassionate care that will quickly get you back on your feet and living life to the fullest.