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Magnetic Resonance Angiography, Chest — With and Without Intravenous Contrast

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A chest MRI that images blood vessels, with and without IV contrast, to help evaluate the arteries and veins of the chest.

Quick summary

["This test uses magnetic imaging and sometimes IV contrast to evaluate blood flow and blood vessels in your chest."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36848-0
Short code
MRA Chest vv WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
MRA Chest vv WO+W contr IV
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, is an imaging test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of blood vessels. The chest version may include images taken before and after an intravenous contrast agent is given.

Why might I need this test?

A chest MRA may be ordered to investigate narrowed or blocked blood vessels, an abnormal bulge in an artery, blood-flow problems, or symptoms that could be related to the vessels of the chest.

How is the test performed?

You will lie on a table inside an MRI machine while the scanner takes many images. If contrast is used, it is given through a small IV line in your arm; the scan usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, although the exact time varies.

How do I prepare for the test?

Tell the care team if you have metal implants, a pacemaker, kidney disease, a previous contrast reaction, or are pregnant. Follow the facility's instructions about eating, drinking, and taking medicines, and bring your identification and insurance information.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Chest MRA

Frequently asked questions

Is chest MRA the same as a routine chest MRI?
Not exactly. A chest MRA focuses specifically on blood vessels and may use intravenous contrast, while a routine chest MRI may examine other chest structures.
Does the test use radiation?
No. MRA uses a magnetic field and radio waves, so it does not expose you to ionizing radiation.
What happens if the MRA is abnormal?
Your ordering clinician may review the images with a radiologist and recommend additional imaging, a heart or vascular specialist, or treatment depending on the finding.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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