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MR angiography of the head
brain MRA · MR angiography · MRA of the head · MRI of brain blood vessels
An MRI that shows the blood vessels of the brain. It is often done without contrast dye. No radiation.
For a possible aneurysm or narrowed vessels, frequent headaches and dizziness, or after a stroke.
⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 30 minutes; the report in 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Prep. Usually none without contrast. You can eat and drink.
- Contrast. If contrast is ordered, a creatinine test is sometimes needed. Usually no food for 2 to 4 hours. Check with the clinic.
- Metal. Take off everything metal: jewelry, watches, hair clips, piercings. Leave your phone and cards in the locker.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Past head MRIs and CT scans
How it goes
- You change and leave everything metal in the locker
- You lie on your back, and your head is placed in a helmet-shaped coil
- The machine knocks loudly. You get headphones or earplugs
- Lie still. Staff talk to you over an intercom
- You hold a call button and can call staff at any time
What you'll feel
- It does not hurt, but it is loud and tight
- Sometimes the area feels warm. That is normal
Afterwards
- You can go back to your day right away
- Take the report to a neurologist
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A sudden, very severe headache, weakness in an arm or leg, a drooping face, or trouble speaking: call emergency services right away
Common questions
Is contrast needed for the vessels?
Often not. The vessels can be seen without it. Sometimes contrast is added, depending on the question.
Is it the same as a brain MRI?
No. A brain MRI looks at the tissue, and MR angiography looks at the vessels. They are often done together.