Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)

MRA is a type of technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging (see MRI) and often contrast to image blood vessels throughout the head and body. MRA is most often used to generate detailed images of arteries in order to evaluate them for abnormal narrowing, blockage or aneurysms (bulges that may rupture).

What to Expect

On Arrival

You’ll be greeted by one of our friendly technologist and guided to the MRI dressing room area.

The technologist will ask you several MRI safety questions prior to going forward with your MRI to make sure you are safe to have an MRI.

If you have a history of welding or grinding for your safety, a no-charge X-ray will be completed prior to your MRI or MRA scan to ensure that your eyes are free of metal debris.

After all the safety questions are answered the technologist will have you change into a dressing gown and pants. You will also be asked to remove any metal items such as jewelry, body piercings, hearing aides and any other metal objects. A technologist will then walk you to the MRI scanning room.

A technologist will place an IV in your arm to administer Gadolinium contrast.

During the Procedure

You will lie on a padded table that moves through a large, circular scanner. The scanner is a large short bore. The scanner never “closes” around you. We provide warm blankets and music during the exam to make it more comfortable.

You can expect to hear knocking and banging sounds during the scan. You will be asked to hold still during the MRI scan.

You will be given ear plugs to help with the noises and a squeeze ball. Because the technologist cannot hear you during the exam, you may squeeze the emergency ball and an alarm will go off. We will then stop the exam to attend to your needs.

After the Procedure

You can return to normal activities immediately.

Drink plenty of water for the next 24 hours.

Your doctor will receive results within 1-2 business days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is a medical imaging exam that uses nuclear magnetic resonance to visualize internal structures of the body in detail. There is no radiation. MRI’s help Radiologist examine organs, muscles, joints,ligaments, muscles, bones, brain, spine and soft tissue anatomy. An MRI creates two-dimensional or three-dimensional images of any part of the body. MRIs provide good visual contrast between the fat and water content of the body which makes them especially useful in revealing abnormalities like tumors, inflammation and infection.

Mammography

Mammography is a specialized medical imaging exam that uses low-dose X-rays to create detailed images of breast tissue. It is used for both routine screening and diagnostic evaluation to help detect changes that may not be felt on physical exam. Mammograms help radiologists identify early signs of breast cancer as well as benign conditions such as cysts or calcifications. Modern digital and 3D mammography technology improves image clarity and detection while keeping radiation exposure low and patient comfort a priority.