Carotid Vessel MR Angiography without Contrast (Deprecated Test Name)
A magnetic resonance imaging test that produces images of the carotid arteries, which supply blood to the brain, without using contrast material.
["This test evaluates the carotid arteries for narrowing, blockage, or other vascular abnormalities without contrast or radiation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36880-3
- Short code
- Deprecated Carot ves MR.angio WO contr
- Synonyms
- Deprecated Carot ves MR.angio WO contr
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Carotid magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, creates detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck. These arteries carry blood to the brain. A version performed without contrast generally does not require an injection.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate dizziness, vision changes, weakness, speech difficulty, or other symptoms that could be related to reduced blood flow to the brain. It may also be used to assess carotid artery narrowing, plaque, or the anatomy before another procedure.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside a magnetic resonance scanner. The scanner uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create images of the carotid arteries. The examination usually takes about 20 to 45 minutes, and you may hear knocking or clicking sounds during the scan.
How do I prepare for the test?
Fasting is usually not required. Remove jewelry, hairpins, hearing aids, and other metal or electronic items before entering the scanner area. Tell the imaging team about implanted medical devices, claustrophobia, pregnancy, or any chance you may be receiving contrast, even though this version is generally performed without it.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a carotid artery, plaque buildup, or less commonly an aneurysm or dissection. The images help the clinician assess blood flow to the brain and guide monitoring, medication, or procedural planning. The test entry is marked as deprecated, so a current imaging order may use a different name or code for the same examination.
Short name
Carotid MRA without contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does carotid MRA without contrast involve radiation?
Do I need to fast before the test?
What happens if I have a metal implant or feel claustrophobic?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy