Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a procedure used to evaluate blood flow through arteries or veins. MR angiography is done either with contrast or without contrast. This is determined by what your doctor is requesting.
An MRA can be performed for venous flow, arterial flow, or both. The referring doctor’s orders must be very specific.
MRA can also be used to detect intracranial (within the brain) aneurysms and vascular malformations (abnormalities of blood vessels within the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body).
Most often, when an MRA of the brain is ordered by your doctor, it will include a scan of your brain.