MRA of the Brain

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. MRA uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of your arteries.

Preparation

• Leave all valuables at home.
• You may follow your regular daily routine and take medications as usual.
• If you have any medication patches, nictoine patches, continuous glucose monitors, or Neulasta, you will need to remove these before having your exam.
• If you are currently breastfeeding, please inform scheduling or technical staff.
• Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment with an order/paperwork if your doctor has given one to you, insurance card, identification and a list of your current medications.
• You will be asked to remove all clothing and piercings, including permanent piercings, hair pins, magnetic lashes, etc. and change into a hospital-approved attire for the exam.

Considerations

• If you have metallic or electronic devices implanted in your body, you will be asked to complete a screening questionnaire prior to your imaging, please bring all implant documentation with you.

Procedure

• You will be positioned on a movable examination table.
• You will be given earplugs to reduce the noise of the scanner, which can be very noisy.
• A helmet-like device will be placed around your head .
• You will be asked to remain still during the exam.
• The movable table will slide into the MRI scanner.
• The technologist will then leave the room but will always be able to see and speak to you using a two-way intercom .