Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA) are two types of radiology images used to for diagnostic purposes. Both take images of organs and tissues that are more detailed and accurate than those found in X-rays or other radiography. A MRA is a type of MRI, but it is a specific MRI that focuses on capturing images of the blood vessels throughout the body.
MRI
MRI is a form of radiologic imaging that uses radio wave energy and magnetic fields. The resonance from these pulses creates images of organs and tissue structures. Images from an MRI are usually more detailed and accurate than X-ray images and can help physicians diagnose injuries and illnesses not apparent from other forms of imaging.
MRA
An MRA is a specific type of MRI that captures images of the body's blood vessels. The MRA has helped physicians diagnose cardiovascular issues that they could not with other imaging technology and without invasive surgery.
Similarities of the MRI and MRA
Both the MRI and MRA are taken with the exact same machines, and both procedures can be taken with or without the administration of contrast materials (which helps show the organs and blood vessels more clearly). Also, both can take images of the cardiovascular system.
Diagnostic Purposes of a MRI
An MRI is used to diagnose internal bleeding, tumors, infections, any blockages, brain injuries, injuries to organs or glands, ligament injuries, joint problems, problems with discs of the spine and bone fractures.
Diagnostic Purposes of an MRA
Physicians prescribe an MRA to look for aneurysms, blood clots, fat and calcium deposits in blood vessels, aorta dissections, and narrowing of the blood vessels.
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