MRA
Also written as: MRA — Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Magnetic resonance angiography, a non-invasive imaging technique using MRI to visualize blood vessels without ionizing radiation.
Full Definition
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive vascular imaging technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging technology to create detailed images of blood vessels. MRA can be performed with or without contrast agents and offers the advantage of no ionizing radiation exposure. This imaging modality is particularly useful for evaluating cerebrovascular disease, renal artery stenosis, and peripheral vascular disease. Time-of-flight and phase-contrast are common MRA techniques that rely on blood flow properties to generate vessel contrast.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from MRI when referring specifically to vascular imaging sequences.
In Context
- "MRA of the circle of Willis revealed no evidence of cerebral aneurysm." — Neurological imaging report
- "Contrast-enhanced MRA showed bilateral renal artery stenosis." — Vascular imaging report