Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) of Pelvic Vessels, With or Without Intravenous Contrast
Pelvic MRA uses magnetic resonance imaging to examine blood vessels in the pelvis. It may be performed with or without intravenous contrast to evaluate blood flow and identify vessel abnormalities.
["This imaging test evaluates the pelvic blood vessels and may be performed with or without IV contrast."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 36863-9
- Short code
- MRA Pelvis ves WO+W contr IV
- Synonyms
- MRA Pelvis ves 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 strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of blood vessels. When performed in the pelvis, it evaluates the arteries and veins that supply or drain the pelvic organs.
Why might I need this test?
Pelvic MRA may be ordered to investigate symptoms such as pelvic pain, leg swelling, or reduced blood flow. It can also help evaluate suspected narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, vascular malformation, or the blood supply to a pelvic mass.
How is the test performed?
You will lie on a table inside an MRI scanner while images of the pelvic blood vessels are taken. If contrast is used, it is given through an intravenous line, and additional images are obtained after it is administered.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the imaging center's instructions, as fasting may or may not be required. Tell the care team if you have implanted devices, metal in your body, a previous contrast reaction, kidney disease, or possible pregnancy before entering the scanner.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal findings may indicate narrowing or blockage of a pelvic vessel, an aneurysm, dissection, or an abnormal connection between arteries and veins. Changes in blood flow can also help assess the vascular supply of pelvic organs or masses. Results should be interpreted by your clinician in combination with your symptoms and other imaging or laboratory tests.
Short name
Pelvic MRA
Frequently asked questions
Does pelvic MRA use radiation?
Why might intravenous contrast be used?
What if I am pregnant or have kidney disease?
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