MRI CAROTID ANGIO
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
- Non-invasive scan—no surgery or catheters
- Contrast-enhanced MRI for crisp vessel images
- Purpose: Checks carotid artery narrowing and plaque to predict or prevent stroke
List of Parameters
- Degree of stenosis—% narrowing of the artery
- Plaque morphology—soft, calcified, or ulcerated
- Carotid bifurcation anatomy—checks vessel shape and branches
Why This Test
- Evaluate stroke risk before major surgeries
- Follow-up after carotid endarterectomy
- Plan carotid stenting with precise measurements
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- Zero ionizing radiation—safe for repeated scans
- High-resolution 3D images—pinpoints smallest plaques
- Early detection—prevents stroke with timely treatment
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Carotid Angio
- Carotid artery stenosis
- Atherosclerotic plaque
- Carotid dissection (artery tear)
Preparing for test
Fast 4–6 hours if contrast is planned
Remove all metal—jewelry, belts, hearing aids
Inform staff about implants, pregnancy, or allergies
Pre-requisites
- Recent creatinine report (if contrast)
- Doctor’s prescription—required for scheduling
Best Time to Take the MRI Carotid Angio
- Within 24–48 hours of stroke-like symptoms
- As scheduled by your cardiologist for routine follow-up
Eligibility
- Adults 18+
- Pregnancy—assessed case-by-case; 1st-trimester scans avoided
- MRI compatibility screening done on arrival
Procedure for Taking a MRI Carotid Angio
| Step | Duration | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Check-in & screening | 15 min | Forms, metal check, IV line if contrast |
| Positioning | 5 min | Lie on table, neck coil placed |
| Scan | 20–30 min | Hold still; machine makes loud thumps |
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Discuss claustrophobia—Cadabams offers music, mirror, or mild sedation
- Metformin users—stop 48 h prior if eGFR <30 ml/min
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | <50% stenosis | Low stroke risk |
| Moderate | 50–69% stenosis | Lifestyle & meds |
| Severe | ≥70% stenosis | Needs surgery or stent |
| Carotid Artery Occlusion | Complete blockage of the vessel segment; no blood flow visible on imaging. | High-risk condition requiring urgent attention. May lead to collateral circulation but still carries a significant stroke risk. |
| Carotid Artery Dissection | A tear in the inner vessel wall, forming a flap or false channel. Often seen in young stroke patients. | Can lead to ischemic stroke. May present with neck pain, headache, or neurological deficits. Needs specialized imaging and careful management. |
| Carotid Aneurysm | Localized outpouching in the artery wall due to weakening. May be fusiform or saccular in shape. | Rare but may result in clot formation or embolism. Rupture risk is low but size and symptoms guide treatment decisions. |
| Flow Abnormalities (e.g., Flow Voids, Slow Flow) | Detected on MRI/MRA or Doppler, these signal reduced, irregular, or absent flow, often related to upstream stenosis or occlusion. | Suggests underlying vascular pathology such as high-grade stenosis, dissection, or occlusion. Follow-up and hemodynamic assessment recommended. |
| Fibromuscular Dysplasia (FMD) | Non-atherosclerotic vascular condition leading to "string-of-beads" appearance in the artery. More common in young women. | Can cause stenosis, dissection, or aneurysms. Diagnosis is often clinical plus imaging. Requires specialist input and tailored management. |
Risks & Limitations
- Contrast allergy—rare; inform staff of past reactions
- Kidney concerns—creatinine test may be required
- Claustrophobia—open-bore MRI available at Cadabams Diagnostics
- Metallic implants—pacemakers, cochlear implants may be contraindicated
FAQs
Is the test painful?
No. You may feel a brief cool sensation from the contrast.
How long before I get the report?
Most results are released within 4–6 hours.
Can I drive after the scan?
Yes, unless you took sedation—then bring a companion.
How accurate is MRI for evaluating carotid arteries?
MRI Carotid Angiography is generally considered a highly accurate of MRI for carotid arteries and reliable non-invasive method for detecting significant carotid artery disease. It is very effective in identifying conditions such as stenosis (narrowing), occlusions (blockages), aneurysms, and dissections. Its accuracy allows doctors to make informed decisions about patient care.
Is contrast dye safe?
The gadolinium-based dye is FDA-approved and has a very low allergy rate.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
Cadabams Diagnostics offers open-bore MRI and comfort protocols.