Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive alternative to conventional X-ray-based angiography. It is performed on an MRI scanner, using specialized software that highlights blood vessels and shows them in 3-D. MRA is used to detect aneurysms, narrowing or blockage of vessels, and other abnormalities. It can be performed on any of the large blood vessels in the brain, neck, body or extremities.
Unlike conventional angiography, which requires injection of iodine-based contrast media through a catheter in a large artery, MRA requires the injection of a non-iodine contrast medium, Gadolinium, into a vein. This procedure is faster, easier, and safer than catheter angiography.
