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Magnetic Resonance Angiography of Head Vessels Without Contrast

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

A contrast-free imaging test that evaluates blood vessels in the head, particularly the major arteries within the brain.

Quick summary

["Head MRA without contrast uses magnetic resonance imaging to visualize brain blood vessels without iodinated or gadolinium contrast."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36881-1
Short code
MRA Head ves WO contr
Synonyms
MRA Head ves 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, is an imaging test that produces detailed pictures of blood vessels in the head. This version is performed without contrast, meaning no iodinated or gadolinium contrast agent is injected.

Why might I need this test?

A head MRA may be ordered to evaluate suspected narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, or other abnormalities of the major blood vessels in the brain. It may also be used for preoperative planning or to investigate symptoms such as sudden weakness, speech difficulty, vision changes, or severe headache.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a table that moves you into a large magnet. The scanner creates images of the head and its blood vessels, usually without any injected dye. The examination is painless, but the scanner can be noisy and may feel confined.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the imaging center's instructions, since food and fluid restrictions may apply. Tell the care team if you have a pacemaker, other implanted medical device, metal in your body, claustrophobia, or a history of kidney problems, even though no contrast is being used.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Head MRA without contrast

Frequently asked questions

Does this MRA use contrast?
No. This test is specified as being performed without contrast, so an injected contrast agent is not typically used.
Is the head MRA the same as a routine brain MRI?
No. A brain MRI creates detailed images of brain tissue, while MRA specifically emphasizes the blood vessels, often using special imaging techniques.
Will I feel anything during the test?
The scan itself is painless. You may notice loud clicking or banging sounds, and people who feel confined may experience anxiety or claustrophobia.
  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