MRI BRAIN WITH ANGIOGRAPHY WITHOUT CONTRAST

MRI Brain with Angiography is an imaging technique that is performed by a specially trained radiologist. It is used for medical diagnosis and includes a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan of the brain along with an angiogram of the brain’s blood vessels. MRI Brain with Angiography does not need any special dye to be injected into a patient before the scan and so can be done on patients that have renal failure or other contraindications for the use of contrast dyes. The images obtained from the scan are used in analysing conditions which influence the brain and its vascular system. 

Types of MRI Brain with Angiography  

These procedures can be further split into subtypes of MRI Brain with Angiography, such as:  

• Time-of-Flight (TOF) Angiography. This technique captures images of blood vessels using the movement of blood within it.  
• Phase Contrast Angiography. This form captures the detailed images of blood vessels through blood flow.  
• 3D Angiography. This method combines MRI with computer technology to generate detailed images of bone and soft tissue blood vessels in 3D. 

List of Parameters Considered During the MRI Brain with Angiography

When preparing for the test, doctors must always keep the following items in mind during the operation:  

• Anatomy and fluid dynamics of the blood vessels  
• Parenchyma of the head signals pathological changes  
• Shift of the central structures or herniation of the brain  
• Size and shape of the ventricle  
• Pathological changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) signals 

Changes might be required depending on the age of the patient, pre-existing illnesses, or history of operations. 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Brain with Angiography

This examination is usually prescribed for:  

• Diagnosing and managing aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, and other vascular disorders.  
• Assessment of the brain post-stroke or TIA.  
• Following the course of neurodegenerative conditions.  
• Understanding the aetiology of significant headaches and migraines.  
• Assessment of the impact of treatment on the blood vessels and the brain tissue. 

When and Who Should Get an MRI Brain with Angiography?  

An MRI of the brain with angiography without contrast is best suited for patients with symptoms or conditions such as the following:  

• Severe headaches or migraines 
• Weakness, numbness, or paralysis in the face or limbs 
• Vision problems or double vision 
• Difficulty with speech or swallowing  
• Memory loss or confusion 
• History of stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) 
• Aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) 
• Arteriosclerosis or carotid artery disease 

Those who suffer from vascular conditions or have a family history of aneurysms may also benefit from this test. 

Benefits of taking the Test

Some benefits of conducting MRI Brain with Angiography include the following:  

• Non-invasive and does not cause pain.  
• No exposure to radiation.  
• Does not require administration of contrast agents, thus is safe for patients with renal impairments.  
• Provides detailed images of the blood vessels and brain tissues.  
• Helps in the evaluation and monitoring of many neurological disorders. 

Illnesses Diagnosed by MRI Brain with Angiography

Some of the most common ailments diagnosed with this test include:  

• Aneurysms.  
• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs).  
• Arteriosclerosis or carotid artery disease.  
• Brain tumours or cysts.  
• Cerebral vasculitis.  
• Ischemic stroke or transitory ischemic attack (TIA).  
• Multiple sclerosis.  
• Parkinson's disease. 

Preparing for MRI Brain with Angiography

Patients are advised to:  

• Take out all metal elements like jewellery, spectacles, and hairpins.  
• Wear loose, comfortable clothes that do not contain any metals. 
• Refrain from eating or drinking 4 hours before the test. 
• Tell the technician about any medical devices like implants, pacemakers, or ICDs you may have. 
• During the test, patients should relax and not move to reduce artifacts. 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific requirements for the test, but patients should meet the following instructions: 

• Do not use any caffeine or nicotine 2 hours before the test. 
• Report to the doctor about any medications or supplements that are being taken. 

Best Time to Take the MRI Brain with Angiography 

The test can be done at any time, but is best done during the day if possible.  

Eligibility 

This test is advised for patients with underlying symptoms or conditions relating to the brain and blood vessels. Certain patients with medical implants or conditions may not be precluded from the test, which is a downside. 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Brain with Angiography 

The procedure generally takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete, following these steps in order:  

1. Preparation and positioning of the patient. 
2. Application of local anaesthesia, if indicated. 
3. Positioning of the MRI unit and coils. 
4. Collection of MRI and angiographic data. 
5. Image processing with specialized computer software. 
6. Diagnostic evaluation of images by radiologist. 

Cautions Before Undergoing the Test 

For optimal outcome, patients are advised to:  

• Report any medical implants, pacemakers, or ICDs to their physician.  
• Clear all metallic items prior to the examination  
• Limit body movements during the study to reduce artifacts  
• Let the healthcare provider know about any feelings of distress or worry during the test.