Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) of the Aortic Arch Without Contrast
A noninvasive MRI test that creates detailed images of the aortic arch and its major branches without injecting contrast dye.
["This MRA examines the aortic arch and nearby blood vessels for narrowing, enlargement, or other abnormalities."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44130-3
- Short code
- MRA Ao arch WO contr
- Synonyms
- MRA Ao arch 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?
Magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, uses an MRI scanner and a special pulse sequence to produce detailed images of blood vessels. This test focuses on the aortic arch, the curved section of the main artery that carries blood from the heart to the body.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test to evaluate unexplained symptoms involving blood flow to the head, arms, or upper body. It may also be used to investigate an enlarged or narrowed aorta, an abnormal vessel, or suspected congenital differences in the aortic arch.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images are collected. A technologist may ask you to hold still, and you may be given instructions to breathe normally or briefly hold your breath. No intravenous contrast dye is injected for this examination.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by your imaging center. You will need to tell the technologist about metal implants, heart devices, pregnancy, claustrophobia, or any other MRI safety concerns. Securely remove jewelry, watches, hairpins, and items containing magnetic material before the test.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing of an artery, enlargement or bulging of the aorta, an abnormal vessel connection, or another structural problem in the aortic arch. The images are interpreted together with your symptoms, medical history, examination, and other tests. Your clinician will explain whether any finding requires follow-up or additional imaging.
Short name
Aortic arch MRA without contrast
Frequently asked questions
Does this test use contrast dye?
Is magnetic resonance angiography painful?
How long does the examination take?
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