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Magnetic Resonance Angiography, Right Knee Vessels — With and Without IV Contrast

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

An MRI study of blood vessels in the right knee, performed both before and after an intravenous contrast injection.

Quick summary

["This scan uses MRI to evaluate the blood vessels supplying the right knee and surrounding tissues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36862-1
Short code
MRA Knee ves-R WO+W contr IV
Synonyms
MRA Knee ves-R WO+W contr IV
Category
liver
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
20
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
mr-angio
CPT
85651
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 magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images. For this right-knee study, images are taken before and after intravenous contrast is given to highlight blood vessels and blood flow.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be used to evaluate blood flow to the right knee when there is concern for narrowing, blockage, an aneurysm, or another vascular problem. It may also help assess certain complications of injury or surgery.

How is the test performed?

You lie on a padded MRI table while the scanner images your right knee. An IV line may be placed in your arm or hand so contrast can be injected, and the scan is repeated as the contrast moves through your blood vessels.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by the imaging facility, including any restrictions on eating, drinking, or taking medicines. Tell the care team if you have kidney disease, a previous contrast reaction, are pregnant or may be pregnant, or have metal implants, claustrophobia, or an implanted device that may not be MRI-safe.

Reference range

Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Right-knee MR angiogram with and without IV contrast

Frequently asked questions

Is this the same as a routine knee MRI?
Not exactly. A routine knee MRI focuses mainly on bones, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues, while MRA is designed to emphasize blood vessels and blood flow.
Why are images taken both with and without contrast?
Images without contrast provide a baseline view, while contrast-enhanced images can make blood vessels and blood-flow abnormalities easier to see.
Will I need a blood test before receiving contrast?
Sometimes. The imaging facility may check kidney function or review allergy and medication information before giving IV contrast, depending on your situation and its policies.
  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