MRI ANGIOGRAM/ VENOGRAM (MRA/MRV)

MRA/MRV (Magnetic resonance angiogram/venogram) Overview

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) and Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV) are imaging tests that assess blood vessels with the aid of a magnetic field and radio waves without any invasive procedures such as catheter insertion. This not only makes the tests more comfortable for patients, but also safer. 

What is MRA/MRV? 

MRA and MRV are done using an MRI machine which captures the images of the blood vessels. These two tests work by measuring the changes in the magnetic properties of the blood flow as well as the tissue surrounding it, 

-MRA: Concentrates on the arteries to help diagnose and follow up on aneurysms, stenosis, as well as malformations. 

-MRV: Concentrates on the veins to help in diagnosing deep thrombosis, varicose veins, and other venous conditions. 

Types of MRA/MRV 

- Time-of-Flight (TOF) MRA: images the arteries by using blood flow without the need for contrast. 

- Contrast-Enhanced MRA: uses a contrast material to enhance the visibility of blood vessels. 

- Phase Contrast Angiography MRA: can measure the rate of blood inflow and the direction and thus blood flow in certain conditions. 

List of Parameters Considered During MRA/MRV

Stenosis of blood vessels 

- Malformations and/or aneurysm presence 

- Flow rate and blood flow direction 

- Thrombus presence 

- Adjustment for natural body motion or technical limitations of the equipment 

Reasons for Taking an MRA/MRV

To evaluate any existing vascular disease 

- Diagnose Aneurysms 

- For A bowel resection 

- To estimate vascular disease risk factors

Benefits of Taking the Test

Non-invasive, reducing recovery time and complications 

- Provides detailed images of blood vessels 

- Can be used to monitor changes in vascular conditions over time 

- Does not involve ionizing radiation 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRA/MRV

From the abdomen 

- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) 

- Vascular Aneurysms 

- Arterial Sclerosis (Vascular Stenosis) 

- Malformation of vessels 

Preparing for MRA/MRV

Caution for those seeking information on tests and lines of treatment without proper guidance 

- Undergo removal of any metal accessories prior to examination 

- Clothing worn should not restrict movement 

- Prior counselling regarding anxiety about small spaces and kidney ailments is crucial 

- Obsolete fasting protocols must be adhered to if contrast media is included 

Pre-requisites 

- Registered exhibitors should abstain from eating if contrast media will be used 

- Individuals with prosthetic limbs and joints must declare them before tests begin 

Best Time to Take the MRA/MRV 

- Works best if scheduled by physicians to fit their patients loons and requirements based on their conditions.- Usually patients with suspected vascular diseases or at risk will need further MRA/MRV. 

- With severe claustrophobia or incompatible metal implants are two exceptions. 

Procedure for Taking an MRA/MRV   

1. Step number one is to lie down on the MRI table. 

2. You will be adjusted for proper visualization at the area of interest. 

3. The scan itself is 15 to 90 minutes depending on the subtype and area of interest. You will go into the machine for scanning at that time. 

4. Moving as little as possible during the scan will aid in preventing issue with the image resolution. 

 Caution Before Taking the Test 

- Discuss the presence of kidney issues with the doctor if contrast is being considered. 

- Report any form of metal that cannot be taken out like surgical clips and other implants.