A MRA scan, also known as a MR angiogram, with and without contrast is an imaging procedure that uses a machine to generate a magnetic field using pulses of radio wave energy, to build real-time images of blood vessels and blood flow within the body. The doctor takes one picture naturally and another after injecting dye (contrast) into the veins to provide a clearer picture of the structures. Unlike a traditional angiogram, which requires inserting a catheter into the body, magnetic resonance angiography is a far less invasive and a less painful test.
Physician order required.