MRA is fast becoming one of the preferred methods of imaging the vascular system. Using radio waves and a magnetic field, this modality has an advantage over CT as it does not expose the patient to radiation. It is also useful in patients who cannot receive ionated contrast agents that are used in a CTA vascular study; however, a special type of contrast agent is used in some studies to enhance the images. MRA is helpful in diagnosing heart disease, blood vessel disorders and stroke.  

 

MRA is being used more frequently to look at the carotid arteries in the neck to diagnose atherosclerosis, a build up of plaque that may block one of the arteries to the brain. The study is also widely used in imaging the aorta and blood vessels leading to the kidneys, lungs and legs and diagnosing problems with the intracranial arteries and arterial aneurysms.

MRA is fast becoming one of the preferred methods of imaging the vascular system. Using radio waves and a magnetic field, this modality has an advantage over CT as it does not expose the patient to radiation. It is also useful in patients who cannot receive ionated contrast agents that are used in a CTA vascular study; however, a special type of contrast agent is used in some studies to enhance the images. MRA is helpful in diagnosing heart disease, blood vessel disorders and stroke.  

 

MRA is being used more frequently to look at the carotid arteries in the neck to diagnose atherosclerosis, a build up of plaque that may block one of the arteries to the brain. The study is also widely used in imaging the aorta and blood vessels leading to the kidneys, lungs and legs and diagnosing problems with the intracranial arteries and arterial aneurysms.