MRI technique for vessel imaging without gadolinium (TOF) or with gadolinium (contrast-enhanced)
Expansion
MR Angiography
Purpose
Evaluates intracranial, carotid, renal, and lower extremity vessels
Clinical Context
MRA uses time-of-flight (TOF) or gadolinium contrast. TOF non-contrast but limited by flow-related signal loss; gadolinium-enhanced is rapid, high-resolution, true 3D.
Related Terms
- CTA
- DSA
- Doppler ultrasound
Key Points
- TOF MRA good for intracranial; gadolinium-enhanced MRA better for extracranial (carotid, renal)